- Artist
- Bat For Lashes
- Label
- Parlophone
- Release date
- 30th July 2007
- Genre
- Indie
One of last year’s outstanding albums re-released to coincide with Mercury nomination
This debut album from Brighton-based Natasha Khan, aka Bat for Lashes – crept out first of all at the end of last summer. It prompted much critical adoration and comparisons galore with the likes of Björk, Beth Gibbons, Cat Power and more. Support slots with Mika and Amy Winehouse during the autumn and a Mercury Music Prize nomination have followed – all richly deserved. Khan’s brand of songwriting and performance, which sees her singing plaintive torch songs over rich, moody soundscapes, sets her way above the slew of singer-songwriters clogging the new release shelves.
This album effortlessly marries rich soul (What’s A Girl To Do?), Portishead-style melancholy (Trophy, The Wizard) and dense ballads (Sad Eyes), showcasing Khan’s gorgeous, unique voice (clearly influenced by the likes of Polly Jean Harvey but with individuality galore) and impressive musicianship. Fur And Gold’s production is slick and atmospheric, maintaining a steadfast experimental edge while flirting with pop sensibilities. Expect big things from this superb artist. This is a beautiful piece of work.
More to try: Beth Gibbons And Rustin' Man: Out Of Season Kate Bush: Aerial John Parish & Polly Jean Harvey: Dance Hall At Louse Point Mazzy Star: So Tonight That I Might See
