Search - Mary Lorson :: Realistic

Mary Lorson's Diary

Juan Mobili | Valley Cottage, NY USA | 08/01/2005

(4 out of 5 stars)

"After some remarkable work as a member of Saint Low and, a bit less impressive, for Madder Rose, Lorson went solo, or at least putting her name ahead of Saint Low. This is her second album under her name, after the soundscapes she created with her partner Billy Coté in "Piano Creeps," and unlike the former she seems to have approached this album more personally, I'd even say as a diary of sorts.

Within recent times she conceived a baby and successfully fend off cancer, which is more than enough intense and direct experiences to guarantee a reexamination in any artist's life. This album represents such serious and earnest look at what has been and what she needs to say, and it is admirable.

I guess, then, the title of her new album, "Realistic," is nothing less than a statement of purpose about her life and her music. In that respect, the CD cover a sepia photograph of herself in the midst of trees from which bright red apples hang, is particularly poignant of this album's content.

Perhaps less dramatic without lacking in emotional depth, Lorson seems more tender in her singing and more vulnerable in her words. There are several songs that stand out and can easily be added to your favorite songs from past works, "Spider," "Realistic," "Lonely Boy" -dedicated to Elliott Smith and perhaps my favorite- and "Serenade."

Although I would not award it the label of "classic" or "masterpiece," this album is definitely worth listening to and appreciating. Try it, Mary has plenty to say and sing about.



PS: Please note that the songs' list on this page is incomplete. The full list is:

1. Wait for the Sun

2. Realistic

3. Spider

4. Born Knowing

5. Dangerous

6. Walking Man

7. Lonely Boy

8. Out of your Mind

9. These Days

10. Ties that Bind

11. Serenade

12. Brand New Spring"