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Michelle Shocked - Don't Ask, Don't Tell Audio CD

A fair review of the Michelle Shocked "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" Audio CD. Please note that the below review is the views of the authors, and authors only. You can get a complete list of all Michelle Shocked reviews here, or go back to the Michelle Shocked tabs.

Michelle Shocked Band: Michelle Shocked
Title: Don't Ask, Don't Tell
Rating:
Release Date: 2005-06-21
Media: Audio CD

Tracks: 1: Early Morning Saturday 2: How You Play The Game 3: Don't Ask 4: Used Car Lot 5: Hardly Gonna Miss 6: Evacuation Route 7: Fools Like Us 8: Elaborate Sabotage 9: Don't Tel 10: Goodbye 11: Hi Skool

...Don't Remember
But largely this collection sounds uninspired. Well, the music here is fine. Whereas previous albums of hers had me glued to the lyrics and re-listening every chance I got, I have to remind myself to listen to this one. Not that it is awful. It just doesn't go anywhere. She sounds bored, so I guess I'm bored too. I know what she's capable of, so I miss the clever lyrics and brassy sound of CAPTAIN SWING, the passionate and original voice of SHORT SHARP SHOCKED, or the musicianship of ARKANSAS TRAVELER.

I still give this one 3 stars, based on her previous track record and the simple fact that this isn't really a bad album, especially when compared to her peers. Also, she retains a "one of a kind" quality that some singer/songwriters never come close to achieving.

Don't get me started on the *genius* who designed the packaging.
.


Terrific collection of songs
Mind you, the cover is a hoot. I don't what I like more: the cover or the music. I still laugh every time I reda the liner notes. Michelle has a career as a comedy writer if this song thing don't work out.
But the song thing is superb. Not as idio-syncratic as you might expect, but still filled with wry observations, terrific melodies and finely crafted instrumentation: as you would expect, everything is perfectly suited to each tune.
As angry as you can get with W, God bless MS for bringing a much needed smile. Imagine what havoc would be wreaked if she came home as Mary Cheney's new girlfriend? I'd pay hard money to go to that Thanksgiving Dinner.
So, enjoy this CD, it's great craic start to finish, and even if yer tone deaf, you'll find yourself laughing out loud at the humour.


haiku for don't ask, don't tell
a pointless album
by an artist whose best days
are well in the past.


A Return to Her Peak of Perfection
If you are looking for an album with a homogenous theme that will wrap you in its "sameness", giving you a comfortable place to retreat to. . this is NOT the album you want. All tracks are extremely well performed, recorded and produced. However, each track could have been done by a different artist. While I doubt it was intended, the first track has somewhat "breathy", yet full vocals akin to early Maria Muldaur. The next track reminds me of several Patti Smith tracks in its direct vocal style, texture and delivery. The third track uses wistful talking/singing to present a story laced with often made-up words delivered in a Laurie Anderson-like style. The list goes on, however, there is no doubt that each of the tracks is genuinely Michelle Shocked. At times playful, always intelligent lyrics are enveloped with and supported by excellent musicianship. Her best work since Arkansas Traveller, her prior "peak of polish & perfection". Definitely worth the "price of admission. ".


EXCEPTIONAL EFFORT / A TRUE WORK OF ART / BRAVO
The music explores a variety of musical genres from rock, soul, folk, to jazz all with her unique signature fusion of styles. This CD is composed of strong, diverse and intelligent songs that come straight from the artists heart. The listener is engaged from the outset with a full range of emotions from empathy to humor. It reminds me of the Kinks at their best in the 80's. Each song has a unique flavor and after the CD is over you have no difficulty remembering the tunes. You only are disappointed it has come to an end. If you have a brain. . . you should not be bored or untouched by this collection.

The sound quality is excellent. The arrangements are done with care and tenderness. The accompanying musicians and vocalists are used wonderfully and they clearly have a stong connection to the project.

I will not bore you with a song by song description. Anyone who has ever appreciated Michelle Shocked in the past will find their own favorites. . . which will likely change over time with your mood and circumstances.


You can see a complete list of all Michelle Shocked discography, or go back to the Michelle Shocked tabs. There is also a good guide on how to read guitar tabs here.

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