The Bottom Line
Canadian singer-songwriter Julie Doiron's first album in two years is an interesting take on the oft-attempted guitar/vocalist solo work (and not only because she shares many tracks with her old band Eric's Trip). The songs on Woke Myself Up are often introspective and at many points very affecting in this way -- but Doiron also isn't afraid to add quirkier sounds and surprising elements to her personally tinged tunes (like jangly choruses and dark, ephemeral verses, for instance). And all of it is to great effect. For fans of indie singer-songwriters who want a little more than just a singer who writes songs.
- "No More"
- "I Woke Myself Up"
- "Dark Horse"
- "Me And My Friend"
- "Don't Wannabe/Liked By You"
Description
- Julie Doiron has been a performing musician in Canada since she was 18.
- According to her website, this is her 10th recorded release.
- She also plays in the band Shotgun & Jaybird.
- In 2000, Doiron received a Juno Award for her album Julie Doiron and the Wooden Stars.
Guide Review - Julie Doiron "Woke Myself Up"--Album Review
In the title track, "I Woke Myself Up," Doiron sings what is essentially a duet with herself -- and it's quite charming. The interplay between the chorus lines "maybe this coffee is not such a good idea" and the chirpy back-and-forth between her low voice and her high gives the song a delightful energy often missing on solo albums.
The other songs with the backing band are the also among the album's strongest. Doiron's voice, which has a soft, wavering quality to it, feels more assured and more powerful with a kick drum underneath it. In addition, the low, grumbling bass that Rick White adds to many of the tracks -- like the second, "You Look So Alive" -- helps guide the otherwise wandering tunes.
The album's strongest track, "No More," manages to have the mood of a Portishead number with the energy of a less eccentric Björk track. Best of all, it manages to combine all Doiron's strongest musical qualities (her inventiveness and the spryness of her voice) with the albums most compelling melodies. "No More" takes this otherwise solid album and gives it a classic, classy push.
This is a substantial release and definitely worth checking out.
