2008 Music In Review - #20

There are some things that are guaranteed to make me melt. Blonde, blue eyes and with a voice that makes you wanting more. Big Star is Haley Bonar's third album and she is only in her early 20's.

Her album has been described as "simple on the intake, but revealing universal truths with powerful emotional impact as it sinks on." Her album in 2006, Lure The Fox was the one that brought her to my attention. Big Star has a more indie-folk upbeat sound to it and will propel her to a audience.

Raised in one of my personal favorite places on the planet, The Black Hills of South Dakota. She brings her small-town despair from a female perspective. The first track on the album, "Green Eyed Boy" has nice feel of an alt.country classic. Something that could come from Son Volt.

Listening to "Big Star" makes you think you've stumbled upon a Lucinda Williams song. She writes a nice cutting dig into the music industry.

"You can dress you up
put on a little bit of makeup
go out and get a haircut
and stumble out into the morning
they'll all hate you tomorrow
when no one buys your single"

Haley has learned how to observe the subtlety of life, just like Alan Sparhawk of the band, Low. She allows her songs to breathe and stretch through the quiet spaces. Think of an atmospheric Shawn Colvin. I really look forward to her growing as a writer and seeing her music and career blossom.

The song that I feel shows off her music and writing is "Better Half" which also my favorite.

I hope you enjoy my 20th pick for my favorite albums of 2008, Haley Bonar Big Star.