Lately, I’ve been really intrigued by Joanna Newsom.
Many of my friends have praised her as an incredibly gifted and beautiful musician, and in a recent interview with Aidan Knight, he also mentioned how great her music is. Her popularity is undeniable — both of her shows in Montreal were completely sold out.
I decided to check out her album Have One on Me, and I was surprised to discover that it’s a three-CD set — somewhat similar in scope to Three by Joel Plaskett. From the first listen, Newsom’s distinctive vocal style immediately stood out, reminding me of a blend of Kate Bush and Tori Amos. What sets her apart, however, is her masterful harp playing and her strong focus on lush orchestration.
Have One on Me is a beautiful and elegant record. While many of the songs are lengthy, they showcase Newsom’s remarkable artistry and compositional depth. The album’s rich arrangements and storytelling create an immersive atmosphere that feels almost transportive, evoking a sense of timelessness reminiscent of medieval landscapes.
Best tracks:
- Easy
- Have One on Me
- ’81
- Good Intentions Paving Company
- On a Good Day
- In California
- Jackrabbits
- Occident
- Soft as Chalk
- Autumn
- Does Not Suffice
Overall, Have One on Me stands out as one of the best albums of 2010 — a stunning and ambitious work that highlights Joanna Newsom’s unique musical vision.
Have One On Me gets: 📷📷📷📷📷📷📷📷/10.
