On her last album, Kris Delmhorst took some of the most beautiful poems and some of the most gifted poets, and turned their inspiration into a collection of Americana tunes. Now, two years later, she's back to her own entirely original work, with Shotgun Singer—a collection of songs that straddles a line between low-fi indie rock and contemporary roots. In terms of comparisons, it's a little bit Iron & Wine, a little bit Ani DiFranco.
Great Songwriting
Kris Delmhorst recorded this album by herself at Erin McKeown's house in Massachusettes. All the instruments, all the sounds you hear were made by Delmhorst herself. It's always interesting what artists do when they go into a studio by themselves—what silences they let stand, and where they decide to fill holes with various instruments...and what instruments they choose to fill those holes with.In this case, Delmhorst shows herself to be a great songwriter from top to bottom. Occasionally, there's a tiny bit of excess with percussion but, for the most part, there's nothing left wanting in the arrangements or production.
Highlights
Shotgun Singer is so full of great songs, it's hard to choose just a couple to highlight. The title track's melody that is undeniably haunting. However, "Heavens Hold the Sun" (purchase/download) is an early stand-out tune, perfectly encompassing all the complicated emotions that arise from being away from one's lover."Birds of Belfast" is another exquisite tune of love and longing, with a melody so smooth and lovely, it will stick with you for days.
"If Not For Love" (purchase/download) is another exquisite love song. In all it's poetry, the song deals with love's trying difficulties and the depth of commitment that comes with it. Finally, the album ends with the well-rounded "Brand New Sound" (purchase/download), which ties together the themes that string throughout the disc: love, longing, and commitment.
