Tuesday, May 26, 2009

Review: Lisa Bianco "Post-Data"


On her new record, Lisa Bianco "takes on the new and constantly evolving relationship between people and a data-saturated world, searching for the personal connection that breathes life into humanity...and music". The NYC singer/songwriter has exhaled a refreshing collection of insightful and charming songs on "Post-Data".

Vocally, Bianco is somewhere between Tanya Donelly (Throwing Muses, Belly) and Nina Gordon (Veruca Salt). Musically, she crafts accessible songs that are generally pop rock or folk rock, and she often adds an alternative edge that gives the tunes just the right amount of umph. Whether she is encouraging the listener with empathetic balladry ("Sideways"), or ranting with angst about our proclivity for virtual relationships ("Post Data/We Communicate"), her voice is up to the task and finds the right groove to fit the mood.

With each spin of this disk, I appreciate more and more the sensibility that went into making this record. The first third is captivating and draws the listener in with its interesting lyrics and piercing hooks; while the middle third demands the listener invest a little bit more time for the hooks to sink in, the final third is an in-your-face melodic rock fest that leaves you wanting more.

Check out this CD if you like KT Tunstall, Nina Gordon, or Meredith Brooks. I can find at least one element in each song that makes it a keeper, so narrowing the list for the top picks is an exercise in futility. Bianco is a rising star whose music deserves to stand out above the other zeroes and ones on your mp3 player.

iPOD-worthy: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 9, 10

Lisa Bianco on MySpace. Official site.

1 comment:

Lisa Bianco - Songwriter said...

Thank you for the review! Glad you enjoyed the music and had some great thoughts about it. Rock on!