Jan Krist

Music Review: Jan Krist - "Curious"

"Time changes everything, everything, everything / Time changes everything but the truth." Now, she could've simply sung "Time changes everything but the truth," and it would have been a good line. Nevertheless, that's one of the things that sets Jan apart from those who are just good. She squeezes the words in all the right places. Makes them ooze life. The CD contains eleven songs, including "Gravity," an up-close, exposed song with only two acoustic guitars - Jan's and Pierce Pettis'. Pierce also lends his terrific voice to this piece.

When I first heard that former members of Vigilantes of Love were going to be working with Jan on this project, I thought I knew what it was going to sound like, and was anticipating its arrival. And what a great sound it is; this project not only gives us a new 'voice' for Jan's work, but several new "voices." Elements of jazz on "Widening Sky," an up-beat Bo Diddley goes to Louisiana on "Works of Love," and warm organ through most of the songs. I'd been waiting for Jan to have more of a produced project, but afraid it might distract from the intimacy of her songs. No problem here. The songs are produced, giving her a fuller sound, but you don't have to search for the artist in the soup. About the only thing I would've liked to have heard, is others doing the backup vocal for more flavor (other than just on "Angel Baby" and "Curious). Jan does a good job, but I personally like a mix of different voices.

I'd already become familiar with Jan's powerful lyrics, and her wonderful, sapid, liquid voice. The band not only added a fuller sound, but also played with the rhythms, keeping them varied and paced the CD just right. Great use of dynamics; it's not just a louder version of Jan. I really like the melody on the chorus of "Jonah and Geppeto" with the interplay of the Alto Melodica. That's not to say that she doesn't have good melodies in other places, but I feel this song shows growth in this area. If you've enjoyed Jan's work in the past, this CD is a must. If you've never heard her work, this is a great way to meet her.

Review by Ed Englerth

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