Music reviews. CD reviews. Critically hip!

Welcome to a world of interesting and carefree melodies topped with a warm voice that draws you in like you've just met your new best friend.  Oh, My Darling, the new album by Canadian singer Basia Bulat, is this world I speak of.  The album is THAT engrossing; it's as if popping in the C.D. transports you to a rare place that has both whimsy and depth.  If that's the sort of world you'd like to explore, read on.

This world is made up of songs that have a full bodied sound, filled out with layers of violins, guitar, piano and some harmonica.  Her songs are also often adorned with an interesting rhythms, drummed or clapped, that drive the melodies in an exciting way.  The music is complex and well put together, adding interesting surprises and touches to each song.

Bulat's pretty orchestration is complimented by simple, but loving lyrics that are remnant of old folk tunes.  The first track, Before I Knew is a sort of homage to love and the doors it opens.  She sings "Oh, it was the first time I fell in love/the first time I felt my heart/It was the first time I sang out loud all through the night... Before I knew, I was lost/Before I knew I was a prisoner." These lyrics are fittingly simple with a touch of poignancy; they're almost like a classic folk song.  Before I Knew is an upbeat little ditty but it also tugs at one's heartstrings. This song is a great introduction to Oh, My Darling because it exemplifies Bulat's individual, feel good sound that is also personal and therefore never fake.  

In the Night is another gem on this CD.  Rumor has it that this song was actually used for a commercial up North.  This is no surprise, however, because In the Night has an adventurous quality and it's also catchy as hell.  Listen to it once and I dare you not to burst out singing the chorus for the rest of the day: "In the night! Oh, iiiiinnnn the night! I will hide away my fortunate sun!"

On top of these great songs, Bulat's voice is gorgeous.  It resonates in a deep and soulful place.  It has a natural and unique quality about it; not showing off but still pretty.  She sounds half folk, half Aimee Mann.  The waltzy song My Love shows off Bulat’s resonant alto chops.  It’s not the kind of belting you hear on American Idol but a more personal, emotive and unique sound.  She has some understated but wonderful qualities: a slight raspy tone and a heavy vibrato, and these qualities create a full sound.  

The touching and well done music in Oh, My Darling creates a mood so distinct, that you are carried off to a different place.  This place is simple, fun and moving and I’d recommend going there.  Basia Bulat is the kind of artist that’s a pleasure to discover.  I can’t wait to see where she takes us next.