Search - Julie Doiron & Wooden Stars :: Julie Doiron & Wooden Stars

Subtle but affecting, sparse but organic.

D. Mok | Los Angeles, CA | 03/19/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"When she played at the Mercury Lounge in New York City, Julie Doiron projected an onstage presence much like her music: A little shy, but warm and inviting, and she has the ability to relate to her listeners unsurpassed by any other artist.Her collaboration with The Wooden Stars is a nice match, the band providing a fittingly low-key accompaniment, some laid-back backing vocals, and a bass-heavy arrangement that makes the songs sound chokingly close to heart. This isn't music to bop your head to; more like when you feel like hearing your emotions externalized, when you wish to be alone but have somebody on your mind. Doiron's voice has a tender, affecting quality that can almost make you feel like it's your own, and her lyrics are all about emotional and physical alienation, intimacy, and honesty.The songs off Loneliest in the Morning were stronger, but the strength of the Doiron/Wooden Stars album is a fuller sound, more diversity, and more dynamics. "The Last Time" and "Gone Gone" continue in the tradition of Doiron's previous works, employing a low-fi, heartfelt confessional electro-folk mode, while "The Best Thing for Me" even sees Doiron come close to upbeat pop.Julie Doiron's sense of humour in concert was a great help and a nice contrast to her mostly dark-toned songs. So far she hasn't quite instilled that side of her into her records, but the earnesty and the melodic power of her songs are all there. Another indie artist whose work deserves widespread discovery."

Julie Doiron, no Wooden Stars

Christopher M. Prieur | 03/12/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"We saw her perform with and without the Brothers Creegan, and it was amazing. She has a very beautiful voice, (think Ani DiFranco or Sarah McLachlan very early in the morning, before coffee) and a passive-aggressive attitude with which many can relate. The only drawback was that one was never certain when her songs were over, and they tended to sound alike."

Simply and Sweet

chloe | 06/01/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Julies voice is so sweet it brings pain to my cavities. Nothing could be sweeter than being backed by the amazing talent of the Wooden Stars. Together they make wonderful sweet and sad songs. Make sure to also check out the Wooden Stars cd called Mardi Gras. One of the most brilliant gems I have ever come across."