Customer Reviews

Drama Queen

5 star:		(8)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

As a fan of her first two albums, I was nonetheless surprisedat how stunning this new work is. In a year of great and frequentlybrave releases (Kasey Chambers, Carter & Grammer, Connie Dover, Valerie Smith, Ginger Boatwright, Altan, Claire Lynch, Delores Keane), some highly anticipated upcoming albums (Allison Moorer, Gretchen Peters), and some disappointments (Stacey Earle, Kimmie Rhodes), DRAMA QUEEN should shine brightly. She's used her wonderful, blue-grassy band (Matt Flinner, Ron De La Vega, et al.) and guests (Stuart Duncan, Rob Ickes, Tim O'Brien) and her own voice (which sounds so like Alison Krauss at times that it's quite spooky) to explore the dark side of the city, working life, small towns, dysfunctional relationships, abused children, mental illness, jealousy and envy. Yet, the sweetness of Judith's singing, her way with a melody, her sense of humor (often black) all combine with these gritty subjects in a kind of oxymoronic story (with a fiddle, cello, mandolin, bouzouki and guitar soundtrack) that is quite irresistible, thought-provoking and oddly uplifting. Judith even adds a lovely edge to the traditional song, "Sailor Boy." DRAMA QUEEN is unique and unforgettable.

Every song on this album shines with originality and humor. "A Load of Blues" was what originally sold me, with it's clever play on words and beautiful imagery, but I soon discovered that it is impossible to pick a favorite song. "Don't Open the Door," and "Blood Reunion" are fun and funny. "The Sisters of St. Timothy" approaches the idea of child abuse from a haunting angle, and the music is just a little off of innocent, which augments the picture the words create.

All in all, this is a stunning album which everyone should buy and listen to repeatedly.

Because I can't get these songs out of my head! I work with Judith here in Nashville, knew she was a musician, and FINALLY she gave me this CD to hear. I can't take it out of my CD player, and I'm going to have to buy 5 copies to give to the people I love because I refuse to let it out of my sight! I'm jealous as all sin of her playful voice, fascinating lyrics, and extremely catchy melodies. Everyone in the world needs a copy of this CD. Just don't ask to borrow mine, cause I'm not letting it go!

...and again, and find something new every time. Every song on this album shines with originality and humor. "A Load of Blues" was what originally sold me, with it's clever play on words and beautiful imagery, but I soon discovered that it is impossible to pick a favorite song. "Don't Open the Door," and "Blood Reunion" are fun and funny. "The Sisters of St. Timothy" approaches the idea of child abuse from a haunting angle, and the music is just a little off of innocent, which augments the picture the words create.

All in all, this is a stunning album which everyone should buy and listen to repeatedly.

I saw this band and bought this CD a month ago at a concert in North Georgia. This is sparkling acoustic music driven by guitar, mandolin, fiddle, a little backbeat and the distinctive bouzouki. And let me tell you- the girl can play: that's her rocking like-a-chair on guitar on the opening. Her original songs are filled with wry humor and hope and enhanced by her keen crystal clear voice. It will make you smile.

Some of these songs are still a mystery to me- lyrically- which brings me back to them. And I think the upbeat tunes work best as her voice flies into them with impish vigor and enthusiasm as the music riffs around her. Plus, even when I'm not listening- I can remember that I bopped around the house in my stocking feet listening to my favorites: Don't Open that Door, a Load of Blues, Blood Reunion, and The Lies are True.

I have enjoyed this CD, although it strikes me a little too similar to Only Sun. I find some of her lyricism (SP) too simple and contrived. But all and all, a great bluegrassy sound.

I had only heard one song by Edelman when I bought this album. I'm an avid bluegrass and acoustic fan and absolutely love her music! I wish I had discovered her along time ago! If you appreciate true talent and excellent songwriting, you can't go wrong with this record!

I'm not much of a country/folk fan, but these songs are a cut above; so even a non-aficionado like me can get hooked. Loved some of these songs: clever, moving and very catchy. Well done Judith! London loves you.

When I stumbled upon Judith Edelman, it was like the clouds of the music world parted and the sun came streaming down. It's thrilling to listen to such an original and creative artist. She really is one of a kind.