Customer Reviews

Small Gods (Dig)

5 star:		(7)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Swati brings to us what is, effectively, a wonderful accompaniment to Tori Amos' American Doll Posse. Where Amos' album is mostly giddy and upbeat, trying not to be too serious where she has been deadly serious before, Swati's album is pensive and somber, often vulgar, and very mood-altering. Tori dwells on the surface, Swati swims in the depths. But enough about Tori.

Swati opens her album with "Small Gods", which is an intense opener with a deep, dark, murky feel. Her voice is buoyed by an atmospheric array of noises that sometimes makes you feel like she's in outer-space, sometimes in a small windowless room. Her lyrical style here, and throughout the album, is very blunt and unforgiving. She doesn't coat anything with sugar here, however she also very rarely throws lemon juice in an open cut either. Through all it's intensity, "Small Gods" and the majority of the songs on the album are easy listens. There is one track, however, that stands out and forces you to take listen. "I'm On Fire", originally by Bruce Springsteen, is imaginatively transformed here into a deeply depressing, minimalist ballad that very much belongs on Grey's Anatomy.

I really won't say which tracks are standouts, because they ALL are. This album is one of my best purchases this year. Definitely check out the artist that describes her music as "Heavy Acoustic". There is some real beauty here, and you wouldn't want to miss it, would you?

This artist is unbelievable. Her guitar playing is close to Khaki King. It is among the best artistry in the US in playing guitar. If you like true handwork, true passion, true talent, please take a listen to this.

The stories in these songs are only outshined by the lyrics. They are amazing. Swati can be my emotional compass anyday.

I found Swati on Pandora with "I'm on Fire" and fell in love immediately. My other favorites are "2 O'Clock in the AM" and "Blackjack." She is an incredible guitarist, and her songs are raw and unapologetic - and very very sexy.

I am thrilled to have discovered Swati in 2006 or 2007 in a small bar a couple of months before her first album (self-titled) came out. Her performance blew me away. Unfortunately, I'd had the song "Blackjack" stuck in my head nearly the entire time until the CD had finally arrived at my home.

I've gone to see her many times since, and enjoy it every time. Buy this album. You won't regret it.

Excellent writing and great mellow relaxing songs with some thought. If you like Sarah Harmer you'll love Swati, old school Liz Phair, Mazzy Star, or Tracy Bonham the you should enjoy Swati.

This album is just amazing. I was fortunate enough to see her perform live at a small club and she blew me away. Incredibly talented singer/songwriter you dont want to miss

I listened to the entire cd last night. I was struck by the heart-felt lyrics, and her beautiful voice. Also, whoever is playing the guitar (which may be the singer herself) did a masterful job. The vocals and guitar work really blend together. Just buy the cd, you'll be glad you did!!