Reviews
Artist: Carrie Newcomer
Album: Before And After
Label: Decca
Tracks: 13
Website: http://www.carrienewcomer.com
Carrie Newcomer was a name I'd heard about but never picked up on until now. From the opening title track where she is joined by guest Mary Chapin Carpenter her latest release beckons the listener to draw a line under the uncertainties of life as she has obviously done with her own and perhaps, if we heed her words we might in fact embrace the final outcome - whatever that might be.
Without wishing to sound too philosophical or indeed make you feel this album is a bridge too far lyrically there's a certain intensity to Newcomer's writing that proves 'required' listening and there's nothing wrong with that in an age where most things even remotely pertaining to a more commercial, 'folk/country' edge can sometimes prove an unwanted distraction.
Phew, this lady plays a blinder and being only the first track of an album encrusted with jewels she is certainly a passionate representative in the craft of song writing. There are many exquisite moments playing to its strengths with great integrity and a blanket of silk provided by her multi-talented backing musicians/vocalists particularly in the beautifully understated string arrangements.
In a way this is the kind of recording that could wash over the listener with the 'nice-ness' of it all but casting an eye over the lyrics (available on-line at her website) these are thought provoking moments (steered effortlessly by Newcomer and David Weber in the production chairs) that leave you in no doubt this lady is in total control of her destiny.
From a personal point of view if this album were a work of art I would class it a Rembrandt such are the colourful pictures she paints. A formidable performer, Newcomer deserves a far wider audience than the stigmatised label of 'folk' will allow but having said that and coming from one who whole-heartedly embraces the circuit then I can't recommend this recording more highly.
If nothing else this CD will really make you think…and isn't that what all 'good' songwriters should do? Now, if you'll excuse me I've got some serious listening to catch up on…
Peter Fyfe