Kathleen Edwards, Failer

A review of a new album is coming soon. In the meantime, here's a review of something that came out earlier this year...

Who'd have thought that a newcomer would outdo Lucinda Williams? Yet that's just what Kathleen Edwards has done--this is the record Lucinda wishes she had released this year. Nothing against World Without Tears , but this is the CD you'll reach for when you're headed for your car, and you'll be singing along the whole ride.

But that makes this album sound petty, and it isn't. It's moody and deep and complex, and it clearly comes from the heart. Edwards' talent is taking what are seemingly specific situations and shaping them into stories that the listener can make his or her own. "Six O'Clock News," the unbelievable opening track, is undeniably catchy, but it also invites the listener into the story of a love who can't quite keep it together for the sake of his girl. And if you've ever been in a tough relationship and thought about leaving, I defy you to remain emotionless through the closer, "Sweet Little Duck." Listen with headphones for the telltale line at the start of the song...

Failer? Far from it. This is a top-five album of 2003 without a doubt.