In her sophomore effort, High Falls resident Pamela Sue Mann nails what critics have dubbed “ethereal pop,” handing to her listeners songs that are upbeat, lush, compelling, and sweet. Though recorded in 2005, L’oeuf was released in the US this year and has already been added to the playlists of more than 50 radio stations, which should come as no surprise to those who’ve heard how accessible these songs are. Produced by hubby Gerry Leonard (David Bowie, Laurie Anderson), this recording showcases Mann’s girlish voice—reminiscent of Lisa Loeb or local songstress Valen—which wraps itself around fuzzy guitars, driving percussion, strings, loops, and samples. The sound at once strikes one as having a strongly airy Jane Siberry vibe, but it’s sure to appeal to most fans of top-notch, straight-ahead female singer-songwriters. Mann, who’s been called “a new diva in the making” by MTV, plays keyboards and guitar but also brings in several other impressive musicians. Her pensive lyrics are packed with vibrant imagery befitting these autumn days, and the elaborate CD packaging itself is also gothic and romantic. This graduate of Berklee College of Music has recently toured and recorded with Suzanne Vega and is also part of a Hudson Valley-based musical project called Revenant, which draws inspiration from the occult and hauntings. Mann is most certainly an artist to keep an eye on, and she’ll be playing an in-store gig at Rhino Records in New Paltz on October 27 at 3pm. www.pamelasuemann.com.
This article appears in October 2007.
