MYSHKIN'S RUBY WARBLERS
Corvidae (Double Salt Records)
Reviewed by Shaun Dale

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Having established herself as a concert and festival draw across the US and Europe during a decade long sojourn in New Orleans, Myshkin pulled up her roots, along with Ruby Warblers drummer Scott Magee, and moved cross country to Portland, Oregon, where she found Sailor Banks, the talented multi-instrumentalist who also served as producer for Corvidae, the first release from the west coast edition of Myshkin's Ruby Warblers.

The formula is still pretty much the same. Provocative, literate lyrics over a bed of jazz inflected folky cabaret sounds, all featuring a voice that can surge like rushing water through a chorus or pour like sweet syrup over a verse, a voice that can intrigue, surprise, but never disappoint.

If you appreciated Joni Mitchell's jazz turns, or have any affection for Rickie Lee Jones, the comparisons can certainly be drawn, and you're likely to appreciate this one. Don't let that limit your attention, though. Myshkin has something authentically original to offer, as well, and it's an offer no music lover should refuse.

Track List:

Gypsytown * Drunk * For Mimi In Jail * Saving Of The Day * Caledonia * Pipeline * Human Cannonball * The Dance * Blackberry Winter * Candle To The Gun * Bird Of Paradise

© 2005 - Shaun Dale