A while back I wrote that as a whole I do not listen to female singers. I managed to follow that up with 5 of my next 6 pieces being about how awesome some female singer was. Therefore, I would like to officially recant that earlier statement.

Within 3 songs of Eilen’s sophomore effort, Letters from Sinners and Strangers, I knew I had to do it. The cd is perfect for damned near every mood. Early mornings, late nights, sober, buzzed, half-drunk, fully-drunk, God’s own drunk…it does not matter. The cd broods, bounces and shuffles it’s way through 12 tracks of no-skip excellence. Whether she’s providing a fresh take on an old song like Charlie Rich’s “Thanks Alot” or Dylan’s “Walking Down The Line” or fleshing out impressive originals such as “High Shelf Booze” (which sounds like it could have been played in a Prohibition era speakeasy), you get the sense that Eilen Jewell is for real and here to stay. She’s Essential Listening for sure.

Eilen Jewell - Dusty Boxcar Wall
Eilen Jewell - High Shelf Booze
Eilen Jewell - Where They Never Say Your Name

Eilen Jewell’s Official Site, Eilen Jewell on myspace, Buy Letters From Sinners and Strangers