Search - Thief :: Sunchild

Good Nu-Folk

bordersj2 | Boston | 03/28/2007

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Wondering if here's officially a genre now? Nu-folk? Maybe it is, and if so, how fitting that the likes of Jazzanova would be behind this particular brainchild. I first heard Thief off of one of Jazzanova's early compilations with Sonar Kollektiv in 2004 titled "Secret Love", a view on folk as ddone by Jazzanova and Resoul. Thief was one of the artists there and pretty much epitomized the sort of vibe they were looking at since there was a growing number of artists blending more modern electronic styles with established folk elements.



To be honest I was a little skeptical, but the album is really good. I always liked "If There was a Love", which has a really pure guitar and percussion sound to it and Sasha's voice won't necessary blow you over but it's not really supposed to - it was perfect for the song. This album though starts out with the title track, and it's a wonderful song tapping into folk roots from the very first note. But as the song starts, you immediately feel the slightly broken beat as only Jazzanova's artists can arrange. Good stuff. "Atlantic" is another one that I really enjoyed, great lyrics which actually link well with the moodiness of the song which rises and falls like a wave. Really nicely done there. Other songs I enjoyed were "Home", which featured in Secret Love II from last year, and I also enjoyed "Leaves". The album does a good job of blending a few different musical styles with guitar and electronica to provide a good folksih vibe overall.



I recommend this, but I'd be careful for traditional Jazzanova or Compost Label fans as it's a different project. I'd say the best way to approach it is open and expecting something different. Also, this isn't an album to listen to if you're trying to get extremely motivated. It's very laid back, reflective and melancholic. Not all of the songs wowed me and a few were just a bit too brooding, but overall I'd say this was a good one. For fans of folk that know the classic genre much much better than me, I'd love to get a tip on what this sounds like... there was an artist from the late 60's or 70's that this clearly mimmicks but I can't remember the name of the artist or the song... it's driving me mad! Anyways, if you like this, check out the Secret Love series and maybe works from 4Hero and Blue States first two albums.



Careful on the price of this one. I tend to like the hard copies, but you can download this for 1/3 of the price I see here & maybe less."