Known for her direct, honest lyrics, Texas-native Jen Foster is an award-winning singer, songwriter and guitarist who writes from the heart and performs from the soul. Her new CD, ?The Underdogs,' contains 11 songs that gi... more »ves voice to universal themes with tales of heartbreak, escape and self-awareness. Working with acclaimed producer Jeff Trott (Sheryl Crow, Stevie Nicks,) Foster has created a collection that creates a cohesive landscape of personal struggle and internal drama.« less
Known for her direct, honest lyrics, Texas-native Jen Foster is an award-winning singer, songwriter and guitarist who writes from the heart and performs from the soul. Her new CD, ?The Underdogs,' contains 11 songs that gives voice to universal themes with tales of heartbreak, escape and self-awareness. Working with acclaimed producer Jeff Trott (Sheryl Crow, Stevie Nicks,) Foster has created a collection that creates a cohesive landscape of personal struggle and internal drama.
""A black and white picture, taken by a stranger, out in the streets of New Orleans..." so she begins "Taking Bob Dylan," the tale of a painful parting. As every good songwriter does, Jen Foster convinces you that that the photo and the wine bottle and the stolen blanket are yours. Foster's rousing background vocals are a blast to parrot as they lead you to the conclusion that she is (and you are) going to be just fine... especially when she finally, boldly and sarcastically asks, "tell me, how does it feel?"
Despite the heavy topics, Foster manages to give us something different: a serious album that, on the whole, is uplifting AND provocative.
While "Taking Bob Dylan" is THE anthem for the whole moving out ordeal, Jen Foster's singing and songwriting talents are evident throughout this album. "Without Michaelangelo" is a clever tribute to "greats" that she manages to make both playful and profound! Speaking of profound, "Amen" showscases the depth of Jen's writing and the strength of her vocals. And just when you think you know her music, you get "Sun in Seattle" which is reminiscent of something, I'm not sure what, but something well before her time... perhaps Simon and Garfunkel's somber stuff? I don't know, but in any event, veeeery cool.
The bottom line is this: if you're into cool, thoughtful lyrics and solid vocals, get this cd... then do whatever you can to catch the next Jen Foster show! Bravo to Jen Foster (and to famed producer Jeff Trott)."
Year of the underdogs
Carmen Pangelinan | Saturn | 02/23/2006
(5 out of 5 stars)
"From the opening line "won't you please tell me where your going I'm on edge with this uncertainty" you begin the lyrical journey of "The Underdogs," both lyrically and musically this CD soars.
i can't remember the last time i bought a CD i could leave in my player for more then just a couple of songs. not only should you buy this CD, but catch a live show, you won't be dissapointed."
Best Cd I've heard in AGES
Kelly Easter | Nashville, TN | 02/23/2006
(5 out of 5 stars)
"(...) Here is an artist who lays her heart on her sleeve - who takes risks in her life and her music. Bigger risks than any artist i can think of with that kind of mainstream capability. An openly gay artist who won a Gospel Award? Michelle would be Shocked! Amazing lyricist and personality, as well. And Jeff Trott? His production is tasteful, impeccable. All of the major songwriting awards Jen has won speak for themselves. She's as edgy and cool as Michelle Shocked, but crafts melodies and writes lyrics like a star."
The underdogs-Jen Foster
andee | bowling green, ky United States | 02/24/2006
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I have SIRIUS and heard Jen Foster on CoffeeHouse, and was so HAPPY!! Jen deserves the spotlight and I am glad to see her there! A Texas native, Jen does everything BIG and with intensity...I love it!
I have spent most of my life listening to "underdogs" who soon became sensational SUPERSTARS in music. From U2 to Alanis...Sheryl Crow to Keith Urban, I definitely heard them before everyone was saying they were cool and buying their music.
Jen Foster is one of those pop musicians doing something completely unique. I bet in a year or so you will be saying, "I was listening to her music long before everyone started buying it!"
Jen has an energy to her most recent CD The Underdogs that permeates, infuses and dares to dream aloud. I have seen her live, and found myself singing her songs out the door and into the next week.
If you choose to buy Jen Foster's The Underdogs, remember, you have never heard this before...and it will be a NEW experience. In a pop world of "formula" songs and manicured looks, Jen is a breath of honesty. She has worked hard and has earned this success!!