Erin McCarley's debut album Love, Save the Empty came out January 6th, 2009. It is a blend of piano-driven alternative/pop/rock akin to KT Tunstall or Vanessa Carlton. The songwriting is creative and fun, but also more accessible than Regina Specktor or Kate Nash. One of my favorite songs "Blue Suitcase" creatively uses castanets during the verse, giving it a special flair. In fact, whoever the percussionist is, I applaud him or her for using a variety of different instruments and techniques that steer clear of the humdrum pop-rock drum beats we're so familiar with. Erin's voice soars, but retains a slightly husky edge (not quite Rachael Yamagata, but huskier than KT Tunstall). Where artists like Rachael Yamagata and Ingrid Michaelson seem to follow a minimalist, less is more mantra, Erin's tracks have obviously undergone more production. Singles "Pony (It's OK)" and "Love, Save the Empty" are full of strings, bass and backup vocals, but I wouldn't label them overproduced... at least not yet. Despite the layers, there remains a quality of clarity and direction.
This is another story, but I first heard Erin McCarley late last year, downloaded two songs on iTunes and then the album disappeared for about a month before returning on Dec. 30th (I hate when that happens! Has it happened to anyone else?). Rest assured it's available now for $7.99 on iTunes, 12 tracks. Solid debut album that is sure to entertain. Too bad the closest her tour is coming to Spokane is Dallas, Texas :(
Fave tracks: "Blue Suitcase", "It's Not That Easy" and "SleepWalking".
RIYL: Vanessa Carlton, Colbie Caillat, Sara Bareilles or KT Tunstall
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