Martha My Dear

Despite having one of the stronger musical pedigrees in the biz, Martha Wainwright proves time and again that she is no need of nepotism on her sophomore release, I Know You're Married But I Have Feelings Too. On what is easily the most tell-tale album title of the year, Wainwright serves up songwriting that is wrought with heartbreak, frustration, and revenge. And boy, the things her ex-boyfriends must have done to her to inspire this! Her beautifully jarring voice (think one part Jewel, and two parts Tori Amos) can turn from angelic to screeching at the drop of a hat on songs like "Bleeding All Over You," "You Cheated Me," and "Hearts Club Band" -- tunes that are as emotionally charged as they are titled. Album standout "Comin' Tonight" proves that Martha has brother Rufus' penchant for pop, but also showcases her ability to cram Dylan-esque ramblings into three and half minute perfection. Her acerbic singing style, clearly inherited by humorist father Loudon, shows that Wainwright has the lyrical wit to match her originality. She dabbles into the cover realm with a playful version of Pink Floyd favorite "See Emily Play" before closing the disc out with the solemn confessional, "I Wish I Were." All in all, Feelings is an excellent follow-up to Wainwright's 2005 self-titled debut, a feat that may very well force Rufus to share the spotlight.

My Rating 7.5/10