Best Release of 2007
Martin Magdalene | Australia | 01/10/2008
(5 out of 5 stars)
"In a world full of technological noise pollution and over-branded production line pop, Noe Venable stands out as a true musician and poet. "Summer Storm Journals" has an air of magic about it; Noe's harmonies and soft organic instrumentation feel somehow medieval.
There are plenty who will miss the feistiness and jagged edges of Noe's earlier albums. This really is a much more polished, gentle affair - every song is, above all, beautiful to listen to. It's Noe's complexity as a songwriter that saves this from being too sweet, too pretty. Her melodies are incredible, and the harmonies on this album are heartbreaking, especially on the first and last tracks. Also, it's clear that Noe's voice itself has matured beautifully - her voice sounds richer, rounder, more controlled than ever.
The CD itself is a gorgeous object to look at, making this worth purchasing rather than just downloading. I think it's the best thing I've heard in a long time."
Beautiful music
Allison Beltz | mountain view, ca | 12/05/2007
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I was able to listen to "Ice Dragons" and "Prayer for Beauty" months ago on Noe's website, and was blown away by the beauty of the songs. I didn't even realize the album was out! I'm ordering this right away. Noe never disappoints."
We Need Such Beauty
M. Childress | NYC | 05/22/2008
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I've listened to most of Noe's albums, and this one is my favorite. Her songwriting grows increasingly thought-provoking, emotionally stirring and spiritually resounding. These songs carry a sense of vitality - as if Noe is tapping into some very primordial matters that most of us have rarely explored and yet instantly recognize as deep truths. A great experience."
Track Listings (13) - Disc #1