Lisa Hannigan is best known for her work with Damien Rice. Her voice graced his albums and, in my opinion, was a highlight of both. Their voices blended together so extremely well, and I’ve discovered that the most played songs off my iTunes from BOTH of Rice’s albums are the ones that feature her vocals. So it was a shame for me to hear that after six years, two albums, and various tours, the two have parted ways. In 2007, Rice announced that their professional relationship “has run its creative course.”
According to RTE Entertainment, “… Lisa will not be appearing at any of the upcoming live shows. Lisa is embarking on her own artistic endeavors and there are no plans for them to work together in the foreseeable future.”
What a shame, what a shame.
But that’s ok, because Hannigan resurfaced late last year, releasing her first solo effort, Sea Sew in Ireland. The album is already available on iTunes, but will be “officially” released here in the States on February 3rd. That’s kinda weird, but I guess that’s a sign of the times… digital downloads are fast becoming the way music is being sold… (I still prefer the actual jewel case, though!).
I was excited to take a listen to Sea Sew, as I was curious to hear what direction she would take. Would she continue down the same path as Rice, or would she go a completely different direction? It’s the ultimate test for an artist who is trying to separate themselves from a band that they are already known for… would their fan base accept their new music?
Turns out, though, she pretty much went the same way. PRETTY much.
Sea Sew resumes the folk sound, something that I was hoping for. Her ultra delicate & smooth voice sounds magically delicious, and definitely demonstrates that she is an artist in her own right. She doesn’t have a powerful voice in the “Man alive she can belt it out!” sense of the word… her power comes through her ability to draw the listener in through the soothing quality of her delivery.
Cellos, violins, piano, horns, acoustic guitars… if you’re a fan of the acoustic sound, you’ll totally dig this record. The first single, “Lille,” is a shining example of what you’ll find throughout the album. Hannigan’s voice is barely a whisper, and the music is as lovely as you would expect from this singing style. You’ve probably heard this tune somewhere… I’ve posted a demo version below in the Dig-It section. This version isn’t too far off from the studio cut, but has some slight differences that make it worth grabbing. For one thing, there’s far less reverb, which further brings Hannigan’s voice to the forefront. Lovely, lovely…
Here’s the video to “Lille.” It’s a joy to watch, as the pop-up book is quite impressive.
By far my favorite track, though, is “I Don’t Know.” Frankly, I don’t see why this wasn’t the first single, as it’s a beautifully crafted pop-folk-indie tune. The song’s not too much of a stretch for Hannigan, but that’s the strength of it. “I Don’t Know” doesn’t really need a spectacular voice to carry the song, it’s that well written. This is NOT a knock on her vocals, it’s just how well put together the song is. Take a listen in the Dig-It section and decide for yourself, though. I totally dig this ditty.
I think that the main problem with Sea Sew is that, at times, I felt like Hannigan’s voice was the thing that saved the songs. I’m not going to say that every song is a home run… “Keep It All” didn’t really grab me after repeated listens, and “Courting Blues” practically put me to sleep. That’s pure taste, though. What I might love you may hate… what I might hate you may treasure as the greatest song ever written.
Waitaminute… it CAN’T be the “greatest song ever written,” because we ALL know what holds that title, don’t we? DON’T WE????? Say it… say it!!!!
All in all, Sea Sew is a great debut for a singular voice. Lisa Hannigan has truly stepped out into the light and put together a fine representation of what she can do. Her work with Damien Rice will always be remembered and cherished, but her future as a solo artist looks promising. Like I said, if you’re a fan of the indie/folk scene, then pick up this record.
Spread the word…
Buy Lisa Hannigan on Amazon
Buy Lisa Hannigan on iTunes
Your Dig-It Downloads:
Download: I Don’t Know
Download: Sea Song
Download: Lille (demo)
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