Search

ARCHIVES
CONTACT US
WORLD NEWS

Myshkin - Why do all the country girls leave?

Four stars out of five

Myshkin's fifth album, Why Do All the Country Girls Leave? combines elements of punk, jazz and country blues calling Myshkin New Orleans' finest female singer/songwriter.

Myshkin's newest release is somewhat of a narrative that journeys through towns, times and memories. When Myshkin stormed New Orleans in 1994 with her first band, Myshkin Impossible, her fierce new voice and punky sound drew fans. But in 1996 she wanted to showcase a more subtle sound.

This new sound, showcased on her last album Blue Gold won her airplay and a cross-country fan following. Myshkin has evolved from the funky sound of Angola and the bluesy bent notes from Butter of her last album.

Myshkin creates a more upbeat, fun and folksy album with Why do all the country girls leave? Each of the 15 tracks dabbles into a specific genre of music, ranging from Yorkshire brass to polka to jazz, with not one style duplicated.

"Market town" is a folk ballad with a delicate blend of instruments and vocals, with Myshkin on farfiza organ and acoustic guitar, along with husband Mike West on banjo and Matt Perrine on upright bass.

"Apricot Tree," which is featured on this month's College Music Journal Certain Damage album, blends horns, acoustic and electric guitars, and drums for an upbeat swing track that tells a story of hanging out under a tree.

Myshkin's eclectic sound on this album can be attributed to her strong vocal styling, as well as her talent on the mandolin, various guitars, and her exceptional song writing and lyrics.

Why Do All the Country Girls Leave? was released yesterday, and with the simple instruments and rootsy vocals, is worth every penny.

- By Megan Hardy