Carolyn Edwards was a crucial member of LA`s and the semi-legendary The Negro Problem. The CD, which Carolyn co-produced with Steve Stanley of The Now People, features performances from some of L.A.`s finest musicians: Nick Walusko, Nelson Bragg and Probyn Gregory (from the Wondermints, Brian Wilson`s band), Heather Lockie from Listing Ship/WACO/The Eels, Paul Lacques from I See Hawks In L.A. Edwards` darkly humorous, piano-based songs range in subject as diverse as Monica Lewinsky, the Prozac generation, romantic disappointment and werewolves. ""Beauty Wasted" is an instant classic. Carolyn`s vocals are, at times, a bit shaky, but in a way that adds to the sincerity in her voice. A slight "Life In a Northern Town" feel (cue the kettle drums), but more minimalistic in approach, with a tinkling piano, and female vocals."-DoItForLove. Carolyn Edwards is a beautiful disc from start to finish, a combination of instrumental arrangements and songwriting styles which make it a palpable modern day song cycle a la Van Dyke Parks. Edwards writes and sings mellifluous lyrics that sound free associated (but aren`t), a technique that is put to particularly good use on cuts like "Lunacy," "Solace," and the taut, mysterious "The Argument." Others like "Monica" and "Lazy" are lilting slices of Americana, adding more credence to the song cycle, while both "Shrink" and "Leave" would make Burt Bacharach swell with pride. The production values, courtesy of Edwards and the ubiquitous Steve Stanley, create a kind of dark mood that still carries an undercurrent of optimism, something that`s rather difficult to pull off. Carolyn Edwards boasts appearances by luminaries like Brian Wilson bandmates Nick Walusko, Probyn Gregory, and Nelson Bragg, along with Kristian Hoffman. Definitely file this one under: `not to be missed.`"- David Bash, Amplifier Magazine. " Themes of loneliness and agoraphobia flicker within the warm glow of Edwards elegantly restrained, 60s-flavored pop, especially on the yearning idyll Factory Moon and the spare hymnal Beauty Wasted, with its subdued, churchlike organ and downward-cycling piano chimes. Its all quite (and quietly) enchanting."-LA Weekly. "5+++. The first solo CD from Carolyn Edwards, best known as a member in the bands The Negro Problem, Spindle, and 3D Picnic. Ms. Edwards` seasoned efforts working with her previous bands has certainly helped her to refine and focus her sound. This is a short album clocking in at just over 37 minutes...but no time is wasted as Carolyn presents soft, soothing, pensive pop that is unique and immediately effective. Her unorthodox approach to songwriting may not be apparent at first. But upon closer inspection, the listener is likely to notice all kinds of subtle intricacies that make this music more substantial and effective than mere generic slop pop. Ms. Edwards music blends mature knowledge with childlike innocence...creating a soothing and intoxicating environment. Eleven killer tracks here including "Lunacy," "Lazy," "Wrestling Match," and "Beauty Wasted." Psychologically rewarding...and highly recommended."-BabySUe. "It`s true there are great supporting players on the album. But no question the star is CE. These are songs that while they seem to have a high pop gloss, really pack a punch. She combines many pop, folk & country elements but into very intense psychologically `noir` situations. "The Argument" alone is almost too intense to listen to at times in dissecting a collapsing relationship, with an air of real danger. I love all the other songs too. Edwards has a sweet voice and obviously a love for a variety of pop and `ballad` sounds. But this is as intense if not more so than any PJ Harvey album. True, it is short-- but not many albums of even twice the length pack into them as much interesting music or as many interesting lyrics. One of the best albums of `05 I think."-Amazon.com.
 Monica - mp3
Shrink - mp3
Leave - mp3
Solace - mp3
Factory Moon - mp3 |
