Vocally Poe comes off as defiant yet sultry-romantic and as strong as they come. Her voice strikingly reminds me of the lead singer of the band Rasputina, and the music is not too far off either. Initially this album was a risky move, somewhat a departure from the jazz-laced melody of her 1st. But what a growth! There are countless genres and you often cannot point your finger at exactly which one you're hearing; an ethereal vibe keeps it together as she moves seamlessly from folksy pop to alt-country to total invention. HAUNTED contains a full spectrum of subjects, but the overall reason for this album is her late father with whom she shared a rocky relationship. With the second track "Control" her lyrics echo the anger that lingers even after his death. The very last song (track 17!) is where she finally comes to terms with him, ending with a child speaking the line: "It's okay, you can go now."

Several things. The upbeat songs are favorites of mine while taking walks or driving. The slower ones are more thought-provoking, and I listen to them when I'm in a rut.

Usage of old family recordings, notably the ones of her father speaking philosophically in his stilted English.

Be more creative in my own writing.

Inspired and deeply moved. One song even crept me out! (Track 14, a mixture of voices and sound effects that reminded me of Tales From the Crypt). Track 17 makes me cry every time, and I feel a jolt of sorrow each time her voice comes close to breaking.

Poe's real name is Ann. Her father was filmmaker Tad Danielewski, and her brother Mark is the author of "House of Leaves." The two play a huge role in her music; the father being a subject and brother being a creative aid.

It never gets boring and there isn't a bad song in the bunch. They are simply beautiful and infinately artistic.

For the casual mainstream it may be too intimate and complex.

She is currently battling legal issues regarding her music contract, similar to what Fiona Apple went through. Except, this is the 2nd time Poe. She cannot even throw a house party and sing! She was brilliant enough to then send "The Poe Ball" on tour in lue of herself. Recently Poe somehow managed to record with the band Conjure One on the song "Endless Dream."

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Created Mar 01, 2007 at 11:26pm • Submit your own review...