Her first album, Fortress 'Round My Heart, was one of my favorite albums of 2009. I was in love with each track on that album, and it never ceases to amaze me still. From the infectious guitar in "I Like You So Much Better When You're Naked", the smooth "Keep Me Warm". and raw vocals of "Oh My God", a wide range of themes were covered on the album.
Now, Ida is back with Katla, named after the still active Icelandic volcano. Sure enough, this is one big volcano of an album. But that's good, seeing as it is a rock album. And with Ida behind the project, you know it can't be smooth sailing.
"Quite Nice People" is an upbeat acoustic melody with a humorous undertone. The song is about how Ida is afraid people will see through her emotions, while she can see right through theirs. Pretty much, it's a decent start to the album, but it doesn't really warm you up for the rest of it. "Bad Karma", as promoted on her site and on Scream 4, is exactly the Ida track I've been waiting for. Hard guitar and pounding drums compose this song about "treating others as you'd like to be treated." Then, "10,000 Lovers" takes hold with a throwback to 70's rock with clever alteration ("Cutie Katie", "Sexy Sadie", "Lovely Lola"). It's message is simple: She's the one sleeping on the bathroom floor while someone else is with many other women. "Cherry Red" is my favorite song on the album, using many old rock references, and just having fun with it. You can tell Ida enjoyed creating the tune because of her performance aspect. "Let's Leave" is a track that seems like it was pulled from the 90's about staying home under the sheets instead of partying. One of the best songs on the album. "I Eat Boys Like You For Breakfast" is a mariachi record that seems somewhat out of place, comparing to dumping a guy to making dinner. "Devil" is a nine minute plus track that drags on for awhile with rock instrumentation after the 3:15 mark. Worst track on the album. With "My Shoes", we get a track similar to "Quite Nice People" about Ida not wanting to be alone and running away from her problems. "Gallery" is an amazing blues track and a great ending to an amzing album.
So, if you liked "Fortress" or any other Ida songs, pick this up. You too, rock fans! This is an amazing concept album that's worth a few listens.
Must Buy: Cherry Red, Bad Karma, Let's Leave