Brenda Weiler
Country of origin:
U.S.
Type of music generally:
contemporary folk/ alternative pop with occasional country and rock touches
Status:
Most recent release, End the Rain (2007)
See also:
Brenda Weiler's site
Virt Records' Brenda Weiler site
Comparisons:
Something in her voice reminds me a lot of Karen Peris of Innocence Mission, and her sound is reminiscent of their current sound. (Neile)
Covers/own material:
Own; occasional covers
General comments:
Brenda Weiler sings stripped-down altfolk songs with a certain clairty of vocal style and songwriting that reminds me a lot of The Innocence Mission's current sound. She has a knack for strong songwriting, interesting sound-crafting, subtle and carefully placed electronic touches, and a poignant tone that makes her rise above the herd of folk-flavoured singer-songwriters out there. And she can rock, too. (Neile)
Recommended first album:
Cold Weather is the first we've heard
Recordings:
- Trickle Down (1998)
- Crazy Happy (1999)
- Fly Me Back (2000)
- Brenda Weiler: Live (2001)
- Cold Weather (2003)
- End the Rain (2007)
Release info:
2003—Virt Records—VRT1005
Availability:
See Virt Record's site for info about availability
Ecto priority:
Highly recommended
Group members:
Brenda Weiler—vocals, acoustic guitar, bells
Guest artists:
Darren Jackson—acoustic guitar, electric guitar, Rhodes, vocals
John Hermanson—acoustic guitar, Rhodes, theramin, organ, violin, piano, vocals
Eric Fawcett—drums, percussion
Erik Appelwick—bass, lapsteel guitar
Alex Oana—mini-synth
Produced by:
Darren Jackson, John Hermanson, Alex Oana, and Brenda Weiler
Comments:
This a heartbreaker of an album that immediately stands out from the crowd because each song has a distinguishing hook. Brenda Weiler's voice doesn't have a huge range, but she sings with such delicate heart that I can't help but be drawn into the songs. From the very first track, "Faucet", I feel grabbed by this collection and pulled right in. "Faucet" and "Trouble" show just how haunting she can be (very). "Scatter" rocks nicely, with a guitar riff that reminds me a little of Kurt Cobain. So does "California", which also features some lovely harmonies. Occasionally the songs get a little country-flavoured for my tastes, but I'm sure that's a personal thing that will be a strength for other listeners. Overall, a highly enjoyable album. (Neile)
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