Search - Brenda Weiler :: crazy happy

CRAZY HAPPY takes you through the Brenda experience, in the sensuality of 'Willing' and 'Weave My Way,' a coming-of-age exploration in 'Jordan,' the tumbling dive of the anger in 'Sweet Lullaby' and pathos of 'Pretty Face,' emerging only a little worse for wear in 'In the Morning.' Her guitar playing is sharp, steady and crisp, with a complex rhythmic structure which fills her songs with life, vigor and emotion. Although she doesn't use as many guitar hooks as she did in her first album, her playing is still skillful and sophisticated. Reminiscent of Tracy Chapman and Jewel, her intimate, stunning vocals exude confidence. Her melodies are dreamy yet forceful, and they compliment every line she sings. The recording quality of the album is also very rich. Producers Weiler and Mike Coates decided to record the album live in the studio--meaning Weiler was recorded singing and playing guitar along with her rhythm section with no overdubs or editing With this strategy, Weiler was able to achieve a live, intense, impromtu feeling for the album-characteristics that typify her live shows. With only an acoustic guitar and a subtle, light rhythm section on a few tracks, Weiler creates a thoughful, solid album that, at times, becomes sadly introspective and mildly hostile.