Customer Reviews

Like an Engine

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Very original and unique artist. Amilia's lyrics create very vivid images and stories for the listener. Amilia is also versatile - she is able to rock the house with the best of them and then immediately shift gears and deliver a sultry ballad. Like an Engine is definitely worth adding to your collection!

We came by Amilia by way of a Roger Corman film inwhich she wrote and sang "Don't Wait," as the background for the close of the picture. It was instant interest. A short websearch and "Heart Like an Engine" was ordered. Performers, songs by lyrics and arrangements effect you differently. When I find a song or recording that I play over and over it is significant. Finding new nuance and realization that the poetry, voice quality, and production values each time is rare. Amilia K. Spicer possesses a voice evoking a range of emotions and imagery. The lyrics are unusual in the manner a common human subject is revealed uncommonly and new. The range and style of the songs on this album go from cowboy reference, to swing influenced country, and blues.
The quality of her voice,particularly clear in this recording is used like an instrument to reveal more than just the words. Silences, changes in tempo, backup instrumentation, and expressive productions is above the common commercial products. Having heard Amilia live at the Kennedy Center and
playing her latest release "Seamless," she will continue to be a performer appreciated by other artists. The question is her achieving greater exposure and mass awareness as an artist. I will continue to look forward to her local performance and acquire her recordings as they emerge. She is a must hear.

This debut CD by Amilia k Spicer grabbed my attention and held me spellbound. Maybe it was the dark lyrics, or the lush imagery, or her husky and sensual voice, or something else, a certain magic that is not so easily defined, but I loved this album. Not since Tori Amos' Little Earthquakes, has a voice and lyrics moved me so deeply and completely. Spicer is foremost a writer who sings to give another dimension to her words. But there's much more than just style and content. Every aspect of this work complements and enhances each of the elements to form a perfect symmetry. The melodies are fresh, yet familiar. The phrasing is subtle, seamless, and intense. The rhythm is visceral but not overpowering. Trying to sit motionless while this music plays, is like trying to hold back the tides. It's energy takes hold and sweeps you away with its power, yet keeps you buoyant and craving for more. Phrases like "New York sounds like a metronome", "...if you're in the game, you can scream out every word, but if you're in the cheap seats, you know you'll never be heard", and "I got what I was asking for, one more take it or leave it" are brilliant, condensed truths. Each listen is like the first, fresh and full of new meaning. Pulling this all together is Spicer's voice: gentle, hypnotic, sometimes filled with pain and irony, dreamy, always focusing your interest. Anyone who has ever been moved by such diverse performers as Diamanda Galas, Dar Williams, Heather Nova, Jane Siberry, Mary Coughlan, Milla Jovovich, Sara Craig, or Tori Amos, will find a kindred musical spirit and a unique, fresh approach. Highly recommended.

Amilia has such a beautiful voice!...I was psyched after I heard this CD for it really exceded my expectations. Unlike many CD's I've bought that only have one or two good songs, I enjoyed each and every one....which is a rare event for me. Definitely a keeper.

After getting hooked on "Seamless" last year, I finally picked up "Like An Engine" less than a week ago. True to form, I have found myself listening to and/or singing these songs every day since then. Not only do I hear this music - I feel it! Her words cut past the surface of life to reveal what's below, with often unique perspectives. Her voice is a beautiful, nuanced and powerful instrument. Her gorgeous melodies catch your ear, and they slip easily into your consciousness. Her piano-driven arrangements are simple, powerful, and give me goosebumps. The production on this recording is crystal clear. I felt like I was at a "live" performance, with Amilia seated behind a majestic grand piano. I recommend listening to this recording with your eyes closed, and the lights off.