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December 11, 2006
Neon Lights: Bell
So, as I'm sure you all haven't forgotten, the inaugural edition of the Neon Lights concert series is happening this Friday, the 15th (8 o'clock), at the Delancey in Manhattan. Those of you already planning to attend will bear with me in smug satisfaction as I talk directly to the undecided.
What is wrong with you people?
The first act to grace our stage will be lissome ex-Russian Olga Bell. Backed by skittish electronics and humble piano, Bell's voice is strong and graceful. Her elegant laptop version of the Breakfast at Tiffany's classic "Moonriver" was featured in the announcement post a week or so ago, and is much more earnest and affecting than you might expect.
Now, an original...
Bell - "Expanding File"
After giving a short piano & hum headfake, rushing drums and electronic patterns streak under Bell's floating voice. As quick as they came, they disappear again, leaving a classic torch song moment in the vacuum. Her tone is clear and sad, and the ever shifting dynamic of the track punctuates a feeling of uncertainty. Multiple vocal tracks join in when the pace swells, and depart for the hazy piano close ups. It's a tricky little song, hard to grab hold of, restless even. That voice is a beacon though, providing a steady focus point, no matter what is transpiring around it.
You're going to want to hear it in person, so I suggest you get there early.
Previously: Neon Lights are Humming...
// Bell - MySpace
// Neon Lights - MySpace
Posted by Jeff Klingman at December 11, 2006 01:50 PM
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