KELLY HOGAN

I Like to Keep Myself in Pain

2012-06-11

Long-time backup singer Kelly Hogan steps into the spotlight on this solid set of songs, drawing comparisons to Neko Case (a friend of hers)in terms of vocal style and delivery. She leads off strong with the opener "Dusty Groove" and doesn't let up. An all-star team of writers have given her good material to work with--M. Ward, Vic Chesnutt, John Wesley Harding, Robyn Hitchcock and Andrew Bird to name a few. To top it off, the legendary Booker T. Jones adds atmosphere on his B3 organ. Hogan moves from alt-country to slow burner to pop rock with ease like, well, her friend Neko. Lots to pay attention to here, such as an inventive song on domestic turmoil ("We Can't Have Nice Things"); M. Ward's ode to Frank Sinatra ("Daddy's Little Girl"); a musical pep talk to one's favorite musical artist ("Golden"); Harding's catchy "Sleeper Awake" and a bluesy finale with Booker T. taking over("Pass On By"). At 47, Kelly Hogan was finally given her chance, with great songs, a solid band and fine production--and she's delivered. Michael J. 06/12

Quick Links:

More reviews tagged #Folk

  • reviewed 09/2015

    Donnie Fritts
    Oh My Goodness

  • reviewed 09/2012

    RICKY SKAGGS
    Music to My Ears

  • reviewed 08/2009

    OR, THE WHALE
    Self-Titled

  • reviewed 10/2008

    TOM MORELLO, THE NIGHTWATCHMAN
    The Fabled City

  • reviewed 02/2009

    DREW NELSON
    Dusty Road to Beulah Land

  • reviewed 10/2003

    Matthew Ryan
    Regret Over the Wires

Compiled by the WYCE Journalism Club

The opinions expressed in these reviews are those of the individual volunteers that submitted the article and do not necessarily reflect the views of WYCE or GRCMC; nor its staff, donors, or affiliates.