Performing Songwriter: December 2003 Beth Thornley's self-titled debut is one of the most professional and fully realized records to cross the DIY desk in a while. Breathless, cool, sexy and just about any other superlative adjective you can imagine, this record kicks off with a sleazy, skittering groove and proceeds at breakneck pace for 10 stellar tunes. Somewhere between the postmodern rock of Garbage, the alluring croon of Natalie Imbrugila and glistening (but guilt-free) sugar pop, Thornley's songs are fun and smart. Her voice, which is technically proficient but always used with just the right amount of restraint, is clear and emotional. Bandmates Rob Cairns, Sheldon Gomberg, Rob Disner and Jamie Wollam simmer with energy even on more subdued tunes like the lovely "Talkin' Like an Angel". Her songs have recently been popping up on The Chris Isaak Show and Dawson's Creek, and I'd recommend picking this record up now before she gets scooped up by a label and everybody on your street has a copy. by: Clay Steakley, Performing Songwriter |