“Eternal Flame”
from the album Real Life
2007 (USA)
iTunes
MP3 – “Eternal Flame” [right-click/save-as]
The interestingly-named Joan as Police Woman (a.k.a. Joan Wasser) has already been moving in the right circles, quietly building up a reputation for her work with acclaimed artists such as Antony and the Johnsons, Rufus Wainwright, and Nick Cave. However, as latest single “Eternal Flame” can testify, it’s her music rather than her respected associates that should earn her the plaudits that are gradually coming her way.
“Eternal Flame” does not follow a catchy formula but instead offers a multi-layered sound for the more sophisticated listener and a fresh melody, perfect for a whimsical summer day. It has a radio friendly quality too, proving that interesting music can be commercial. Her vocals are as distinct as they are delicious and glide over the musical arrangement effortlessly. It’s a sound that has echoes of fellow New Yorker Regina Spektor.
Joan’s music is similar to that of some of those who she has worked with, simply in the sense that it is indefinable. She has a sound that is very current, but certainly not disposable, as much of the guitar bands currently churned out on the radio airwaves are. Let’s hope her sound is around for many more years to come.