Both as a member of The New Pornographers and on her own, Neko Case has a voice that reaches deep. The critical darling began her career in earnest with the soft, country-tinged album The Virginian in 1997, and has continued to write and record chilling and spacious songs.
Case's latest solo album, Middle Cyclone, was recorded in a barn and features the bird songs, wind gusts and animal noises to prove it. Musically, the album is a bit poppier than past efforts, but not without a few sad cowgirl tunes. With guest appearances by M. Ward, members of The New Pornographers and The Sadies, Middle Cyclone is as musically rich as it is natural. The band's earthy, Americana textures mix skillfully with a floating atmosphere and Case's rich, soulful voice.
This segment originally ran September 11, 2009.
Copyright 2009 XPN