Anna Coogan
(self-released)
Clearly, there's nothing more commonplace these days that dewy-eyed singer/songwriters of a lofty Americana persuasion. Except, of course, for squabbling politicians and recalled drywall from China. So the fact that Anna Coogan operates within that template doesn't exactly set her up for any sort of distinction, at least not at the outset. That said, the fact that she is able to distinguish herself within a realm that's so tried and true attests to both her prowess and performance.
Truth be told, The Nocturnal Among Us doesn't necessarily breach any parameters. As its title implies, it's an album permeated by sadness, despair and a twilight sensibility that ensures that its overcast feeling lingers throughout. In fact, Coogan's preoccupation with death is exceedingly obvious, from the haunting despondency of "Holy Ghosts of Texas" to the pensive sway of "Coins on Your Eyes." Its best songs - "Dreaming My Life Away" and "Halfway Gone" in particular - bear lyrics that succumb to resignation, although Coogan's high lonesome vocals bare both sorrow and strength. So while some may find her downcast demeanor a bit troubling, the beauty in her melodies becomes more engaging with every listen. After three albums and an EP, Coogan clearly isn't the star she ought to be, but even so, she ranks one of the best of her breed.
Standout Tracks: "Dreaming My Life Away," "Halfway Gone" LEE ZIMMERMAN
