Anna Calvi - Anna Calvi (Domino, 2011)

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Talk of Anna Calvi's spot on BBC's "Sound of 2011" poll, similarities to PJ Harvey (as her longtime collaborator Rob Ellis produced this album), praise from Brian Eno, and emphasis of "Sound Pictures" have oppressed reviews of her debut album since its January release. Well, all of that and her fire-red lipstick. First of all, taking a look at the artists on BBC's poll after a good amount of time has passed reveals how irrelevant it was in the first place (simply put; Jesse J won). Secondly, the similarities to PJ Harvey are certainly there, but more in her lovesick, sinister songwriting than how she actually sounds. Thirdly, if Brian Eno is a fan it makes sense, for there's a striking attention to atmosphere rousing through her songs that Eno would likely appreciate.

Though the most accurate of claims is that Calvi attempts to construct film score-esque compositions. Not John Williams-par cinematic epics, but the kind of Chris Isaak, blues-ridden twang of David Lynch's Wild At Heart. The album is full of bluesy moments, but the guitar-picked instrumental "Rider To The Sea" is best; evoking pictures of scarlet lounges and dim-light bars, as lasso-wielding nighthawks guard exhausted deserts. What's impressive to consider throughout the album is it's Calvi on guitar, and she's quite talented. Not only that but her trembling chops give these songs a sense of black & white noir, a behind the dusty shutters kind of drama that results in a number excellent moments. The anthemic holler of "Desire" is a quality example of this, as Calvi builds her shivering vulnerability into an operatic climax, completely letting herself go.

The album's second half leans towards softer, more spaced-out territory than the album's first half, though it doesn't tamper the lusty sonic narrative she carries throughout. The soothing reflections of "The Devil" spotlight this through internal conflict, resembling sorrow as the late Jeff Buckley once did. As far as debut albums go, Anna Calvi is one of the most promising of the year. Her blues-dipped guitar resonance, moonlit compositions, and elegant, windswept vocals are illuminating factors for what's certain to be a bright future for one of England's freshest artists.



[Anna Calvi Website]
[Stream/Buy Anna Calvi from Domino Records]