Album Review: Lobotomy Sessions by Alu
Album Name: Lobotomy Sessions
Artist: Alu
Year/Label: 2008 / Independent
Review by Amy Lotsberg Producer of Collected Sounds
I reviewed Alu’s previous album, Infomercial Gasmask in 2004 . I remember it being very unique and intriguing. I really liked it. I called it “beautifully atmospheric”. So I was very happy to learn that a new album was coming.
While I really liked Infomercial Gasmask, I haven’t listened to it in some time (so much music, so little time) so I had sort of forgotten exactly what it was I liked about her. But as soon as I heard the sound again, it kind of all came back to me.
The first song I heard from this (Martian Rendevous) first made me think of Kate Bush, then of Hannah Fury. Alu uses a bunch of echo on her voice and that tinkly piano is spooky…in a wonderful way.
Casket Salesman is a great song. It’s catchy and quirky and her voice is reminiscent of Tori Amos in some spots. I dare you to listen and try NOT to snap your fingers along with it.
Buzzin in my Brain has a nice syncopated rhythm that plays nicely with her wonderful vocals.
Actually the more I hear these songs, the more I fall in love with them individually.
I keep hearing her music referred to as ‘cinematic’ and I’d say that fits nicely. She has a way of evoking a mood with the sounds she creates.
This is fantastic record that grows on my more with each listen.
Track Listing
Listen to track samples
1. Buzzin in My Brain
2. Casket Salesman
3. Circus Cosmos
4. Recluse
5. The Metrosexuals
6. Black Cloud
7. Aahhh
8. Amy
9. Martian Rendevous
10. Luna
