We music writers typically agree that using a math equation as an analogy for a record is, well, it’s pretty damn lazy. That said, it also happens to occasionally be an awfully succinct and effective device. For instance, what would you get if you took Music City’s traditional sound and work ethic, added a bit of legacy and a handful of talented sidemen, and subtracted Music Row? In this case, you’d have Chelsea Crowell’s eponymous debut. (See? That wasn’t so painful, lazy as it may have been.) Crowell’s fiercely personal collection of folk and country ballads is emotive and accessible. While the young songwriter’s vocals aren’t perfect, her wounded, lovelorn lyrics are served well by her imprecise delivery, and the foundation of each song is built on the confoundingly brilliant playing of folk and rock musicians like William Tyler (Lambchop, Silver Jews) and co-producer Loney John Hutchins (Bobby Bare Jr., The Mattoid). There’s even a cameo from Crowell’s old man, Rodney, in the mix. You might have heard of him.
Tue., Dec. 8, 6 p.m., 2009
Tue., Dec. 8, 6 p.m., 2009
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