Customer Reviews

Gown

5 star:		(9)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Gown has an unsurpassed loveliness unlike anything I've ever heard before. Jo Hamilton seems to be in touch with the beauty of nature and the goodness to be found in this world as you "make your way through the undergrowth." The album's theme strikes a chord that resonates deep within me. I hope is does with you, too.

A lot of British music publications have hyped this record to almost overkill status. But guess what, "Gown" is almost as good as the music critics say it is. Now context is a good thing and this record comes out in the same climate as Dr. Luke's bastardizing pop songs..Keisha, Katy Perry take your pic or Brit pop singers that have followed in the wake of Amy Winehouse and Lily Allen (Adele, Little Boots, Ellie Goulding among others) Thankfully "Gown" sounds like a pretty unique but not altogether original LP. I hear elements of Cowboy Junkies, David Sylvian, Talk Talk, Sig Ros, Kate Bush, Peter Gabriel, Bjork, and Sarah McLachlan amoung others. And the production of the album to my ears on most tracks sounds like the album producer/engineer followed the Daniel Lanois book on how to make a record. It is a lushly produced album. For me this is refreshing and although this record probably has been pro-tooled and auto-tuned to death, at least is doesn't sound like it.

One thing this record does is sneak up on you. Out of the gate first listens will be lukewarm to bland for most. But you will find some songs sticking in your head. And then the whole album has this vibe, creates this headspace that will wash over you with repeated listens. And then when you think this record can't contain anymore surprises, you place on headphones and marvel out how intricate this album was put together. The way it is going this might be the best female debut album I have heard since Tori Amos "Little Earthquakes" or Mary Margaret O'hara's "Miss America" (a criminally ignored album)

As far as live, I hear Jo uses a touch piano or keyboard. What I have seen on Youtube of her playing this prototype instrument makes me excited to see her play live

4 out of 5 but might be five in a couple dozen more listens.
end
kdc

There are two tracks in particular on Gown that each and every time strike an incredible sense of awareness and make the hair on the back of your neck stand up - 'Liathach' and 'Think of Me'. Songs that describe the sense of majesty of the Highlands of Scotland. Detail and production is unsurpassed, all in all the whole album is a phenomenon.

If you need an amazing soundtrack for your special days of your life, the wonderful GOWN is for you! The shining nuances of Jo take you on moods and inner worlds of tenderness and light. THINK OF ME, LIATHACH and THINK OF ME are marvellous! All songs and sounds are super.

A fantastic album - Gown, The Album, is like Jo, the singer and the songwriter; it's all heart, but smooth, whimsical and full of passion and wonder. You will be sucked into the magic of this album and Jo's voice. An experience that will stay with you.

It's been a long time since I've heard such a beautifull sound.
You just get lost in her voice and captured by the music. If you
like relaxing, honest music you shoudl absoluty buy this cd.

This is a really strong and original album. Jo has enormous vocal ability that it is used to create real dynamics within the songs. I do think the lead track (Exist), though interesting, could be off - putting as an introduction. So be sure to try the other samples and especially the last track 'Think of Me'.

As a recording engineer and prodcuer myself, I don't buy all that many CD's, kind of like bringing work home with you on the weekend. I didn't think twice about buying Gown. Kudos to Jo Hamilton and producer Jon Cotton for making an album that values dynamics in the arrangements and mixes, and for their bravery in an ecclectic mix of styles across the playlist. Jo's voice is exceptional in its range and expression, the musicianship top notch. Already looking forward to their next effort!

I(Jim) received a signed copy of Gown for my birthday over a year ago and continue to be mesmerized by Jo's etherial voice and brilliant arrangements. In my opinion, this album is original and head and shoulders above any contemporary female album.

Jo Hamilton has reawakened the term "Eclectic" with this beautiful, new release!
Every song on "Gown" is like a beautiful breath of fresh air.
Her writing is mystical, her voice is enchanting and her music reaches down into your soul.
She is a beautiful reminder that creativity and originality may take a vacation from music every now and then,
but it's always alive.
Thank you Jo!