Welcome to a new edition of "For The Record." This time we focus on Amy Raasch’s new album “Girls Get Cold.” For those readers not yet in the know, Raasch is a singer/songwriter, composer, actress, musician and media installation artist. The 8-track EP, produced by co-composer David Poe (Regina Spektor, Kraig Jarret Johnson, Grace Kelly), features all original material described by some as neo-folk but more popularly referred to as quirky electronic pop music.
'Girls Get Cold'
On this release, Raasch leads the way on (vocals, flute, guitar, piano and “belt of nails”).
She is backed by an assortment of other artists including: keyboardist Jebin Bruni (Aimee Mann, Me’Shell Ndegeocello), Victor drummer Victor Indrizzo (Rufus Wainwright, Avril Lavigne), French horn player Louis Schwadron (Sky White Tiger), trumpeter John “Scrapper” Sneider (Curtis Stigers, Angela McCluskey), percussionist Doug Yowell (Joe Jackson, Duncan Sheik), cellist John Krovoza, and from the L.A. Master Chorale, Kristen Toedtman on backing vocals. Producer Poe also appears on bass, guitar, piano, and programming.
Track by track
The album opens on the titular track “Girls Get Cold.” It’s an interesting and oft’times ethereal intro that touches upon the boundaries in a relationship. It’s about releasing one’s power while still managing some control.
The second selection is “Straight Boys” which is a catchy cut composed of humor, social commentary, and drama. Raasch poses the question: “Why can’t I be friends with a straight boy?” (Your rascally writer would guess it’s because you’re too attractive.) But seriously folks, in this light piece on sexual politics she seems to be suggesting that society now has the chance to take a second look at how we expect relationships to go and perhaps change things if need be.
The almost elegant “Weight Of A Man” is next. It includes a meaningful message focused on contrasts. It includes stark piano play with her full vocals in a song that speaks of the sometimes hard demands of a relationship with the soft sensuality of being beneath one’s lover.
“We Got A Thing” follows. She and Poe pick things up here and pulses with positivity.
It sounds like it was fun to record.
The next number is “What The Sun Kisses.” This one has a worldly, retro sound that at times is 1960s-sexy with a vague reminiscence to something one would hear during one of the more pleasant moments in a James Bond film.
To lighten the mood there is the fun “Kitty Decides.” It’s humorous and features a bit of electro-pop which makes this track also sound a bit retro. The pop culture-tinged cut includes Ever Carlin and Matea Carlin “additional vocals.” Cat lovers will think it’s the best bit on the disc.
Also included here is “The Saboteur.” It features some noteworthy instrumental work although Raasch’s vocals, as always, ride herd on them as the musical waves crash on the shore.
The album’s endnote is "Breathe My Breath.” This soulful, airy audio outro presents a quiet close. Overall, this new release explores many themes including the disconnectedness of our society in an age where it is easy to connect. Her use of film and TV references, reportedly part of her signature sound, adds something both familiar and special to the musical messages within her timely tunes.
Check out “Girls Get Cold” and find out “What The Sun Kisses.”
