Basia Bulat - Good Advice

Basia Bulat
Good Advice
2016
Spotify

There are always those artists out there that are under appreciated and unfortunately Basia Bulat is one of those. Her new record Good Advice is full of springy indie music showcasing both her multi-instrumentalist talents and her rich soulful voice. The music is poppy but never mainstream always keeping it's feet firmly in the indie scene. But there is something totally earworm infectious about her sound, you can't escape it because it is so classically good. Her sound is light but never thin, the drums have such a light touch but they add so much. She doesn't just sit in the pop lane though on "In The Name Of" she takes a stab at gospel and really creates something special with that organ blaring away behind her. The entirety of this album has a retro feel thanks in part to producer Jim James (My Morning Jacket) but is not dated it all feels fresh and new. There is clearly an homage to Joni Mitchell, which many singer songwriters attempt but rarely achieve, however it is not derivative in the slightest due in part to her use of layered instruments. It is that almost marching band-esque feel of multiple instruments working together to create one sound that really makes this record special.

A lot of people will be quick to criticize this record because Bulat's vocal range is a bit limited, but when you listen that just adds to her overall charm. She gets into a lane of musical ability and then uses every inch of that to the best of her ability. If you are looking for something to sit around and sulk to then Good Advice is certainly not the record for you  it is far to bright and meant for sitting in a field really enjoying life. The record's advice seems to be live your life, and enjoy yourself while doing it but without the typical words of empowerment. It really is a special album and one that breaks down barriers of what great pop music is and can be. And now for the cliche ending to this post: I will personally give you some Good Advice go and listen to this record now, you won't regret it.

8.5 out of 10