Sarah Slean [EP, Import]

Sarah Slean (Artist) | Format: Audio CD

Product Details

• Audio CD (January 8, 2007)
• Number of Discs: 1
• Format: EP, Import
• Label: Wea International
• ASIN: B00005MK3S
• In-Print Editions: MP3 Download
• Average Customer Review: 4.5 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (15 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #294,996 in Music (See Top 100 in Music)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

9 of 11 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Amazing artist, disappointing release., August 9, 2001

By 

D. Mok (Los Angeles, CA) - See all my reviews
(VINE VOICE)   

Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: Sarah Slean (Audio CD)

I was totally livid after listening to this, the first track of Sarah Slean's U.S. debut EP. Having played her Canadian indie releases, the Universe EP and her first album blue Parade, I've identified Slean as a songwriter of the finest order, a classy and imaginative arranger, a top-notch pianist, and a singer whose plaintive, ethereal croon is the pinnacle of loveliness. Her self-produced indie releases showed an artist who was ready to soar -- her "Playing Cards with Judas" from last year was possibly the best song written last year.

On this EP, you'll get only half the picture, at best. I can only blame producer Hawksley Workman. Slean had shown impeccable taste on her previous recordings; there is no way that the vibrato-obsessed, unmelodic lead vocal style of "Eliot" and "Book Smart, Street Stupid" could have been her idea. Rather than her old, pitch-perfect croon, we get a ritchety croak that's disturbing at best, irritating at worst. This approach inaccurately paints Slean as a non-singer in the leagues of Gord Downie and early Adam Duritz, the breathtaking beauty of her voice violated. The songwriting is good, but compare this version of "Eliot" with Slean's earlier recording on Blue Parade and you'll see Workman's contribution to this EP is akin to that of a parasite to the body.

Why four stars? Because thankfully, this EP culls tracks from Universe and Blue Parade to give U.S. audiences a taste of Slean's earlier work. And these soar to the heights leaving the first three new tracks in the dirt. "Twin Moon" is mystical and beautiful; "High" is funky yet subtly menacing; and "Me and Jerome" and "John the 23rd" both showcase the fresh sonics, subtly gorgeous vocal work, and spiritually and lyrically complex songwriting that Slean has always been known for up to this point.

Slean is still an artist deserving of utmost respect and attention. I just think, somewhere along the line, while diving into a major-label deal, her distinctive, impeccable sound has been marred by the interference of inferior outside "talent". No doubt, though, I will purchase her upcoming full-length album when it comes out, if only for the hope that Workman hadn't done his ghastly work on all of Slean's new songs.

3 of 3 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Powerfully distinct, January 18, 2003

By 

grrlfriend (Calgary, Alberta Canada) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Sarah Slean (Audio CD)

From the moment Sarah Slean begins to sing, you can tell that she is no one's sound-a-like. Her voice is unique and beautiful and powerful. The sort of voice that - if you see her live - can bring tears to your eyes. She's also an extremely talented pianist, but please don't lump her in with the plethora of piano girls... she's so much more than that. Her lyrics are well written and intelligent, and her sound is all her own. I think of it as a modern take on old-fashioned cabaret-style jazz (which of course puts her squarely into the vaguely defined "Adult Alternative" category; an unfortunate label).

"Sweet Ones" is probably the most accessible song on the album, a catchy, upbeat song that's getting a fair bit of radio play. "Eliot" is absolutely brilliant. I, for one, am in favour of this reworked version. Though I'll agree with an earlier reviewer that this recording of "Book Smart, Street Stupid" is less successful; it's far more melodic when you hear it live. If you can get your hands on her full-length debut album, "Night Bugs" (I gather that it's only available here in Canada), then I highly recommend it. Otherwise, pick up this EP. It's a good introduction to one of the most stunning performers that I've had the privilege to hear.

5 of 6 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars FAB!, September 16, 2004

By 

WoW (Netherlands) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Sarah Slean (Audio CD)

It's a shame Sarah Slean's releases are very hard to get outside of Canada. This woman has many talents, and should get credit for that outside of her homeland. She writes very clever and interesting lyrics, is an amazing piano player, has a sixth sense for catchy and strong melodies, and is also blessed with a gorgeous voice. Though this release is an interesting introduction to her music (it introduced be to her as well), after hearing it, you will only want more, MORE! I recommend getting her albums in order of release, so Universe first, followed by Blue Parade, Night Bugs and Day One. This EP however, only has songs from the first three. Also: if you have the chance to see and hear her live, grab it! She's a fantastic live performer, and aside from that also a very nice person. ;)