by Joey Guerra
Daily Cougar StaffPerfect for one of those quiet evenings at home or a coffee house gathering with friends, singer/songwriter Catie Curtis delivers a surprising sincerity on her latest release, Truth From Lies.
Folksy, female singers are a dime a dozen these days, but Curtis gives listeners something to talk about. While "Radical" ("I'm not being radical when I kiss you/And I don't love you to prove a point") is garnering support from the gay and lesbian community, the album is sure to strike a chord with anyone.
Just like the aforementioned song, the rest of Truth from Lies benefits from a frankness in lyrics by Curtis, whose style bears resemblance to a lower-key Sheryl Crow. "Troubled Mind" is a campfire-type ballad, conjuring up images of a burning fire and a starry sky for two.
"Dad's Yard" is another touching moment, recalling memories of a father who knew just how to take care of everyone. It's great to hear honesty and warmth in a songwriter, and Curtis, who worked as a social worker at one time, knows how to drive home a point.
As for Curtis' other musical talents, vocals are never less than adequate, and her acoustic guitar plays like the lyrics: simple and straightforward.
The album falters a bit on the second half, leaning toward a more mellow sound, but it is never a boring ride. Curtis deals with a variety of subjects, from old age to relationships.
"Wolf" is an attempt to deal with abuse on a child's level, and it careens between poignancy and naivet.
Curtis is at her best when dealing with more personal, adult topics. Her music sparkles with the self-assured sound of a woman in the male-dominated world of music. Listen to the first four tracks, and find the Truth out for yourself.
by Brian Dear
Daily Cougar StaffExample, the new Sony debut from For Squirrels, is just that -- an example for other new bands to follow.
The lyrics, with the exception of "Mighty K.C.," are a shade immature in developement, but U2's debut, Boy had similar characteristics.
A common thread Boy and Example share is the diversity of the themes. For Squirrels investigated everything from dark disparity to foggy New England beaches.
The band found a good use for Stafford loans: It recorded its demo album with $6,000 of student loan money. From this parentally disappointing begininng, For Squirrels was born.
Sony markets For Squirrels to the younger crowd through comic-book advertising and gimmicky promotion, and they market to the older crowd through extensive club touring.
For Squirrels recently performed with Echobelly at the Urban Art Bar and the show was phenomenal. The stage presence of For Squirrels will ensure a long future in live performance.
The album, while not bad, still needs work. I am sure a sophomore release will expose For Squirrels' true talent.