2008 Woodie Awards
Artist envokes listeners' emotions
Kristiane Smith
Issue date: 4/25/08 Section: ARTS & LIFE
Tristan Prettyman's newest album Hello…X, which was released earlier this month, is a compilation of sincere, laid-back and melodic folk songs, which follows her 2005 debut album twentythree.
Prettyman recorded this album in London with famous British producers Martin Terefe and Sacha Skarbek, who have worked with musical artists James Blunt and KT Tunstall, among others.
The album's first single, "Madly," a tune about breaking up, being happy for one another and letting go, is full of energy, lively acoustic guitars and an extremely catchy chorus. This song is bouncy and vivacious, yet complex in its subject matter.
The track "You Got Me" has a mature and bluesy feel to it complimented by her seductive whisper of a voice, which makes this song brisk, cool and an absolute pleasure to listen to.
Songs like "Echo" and "Handshake" are upbeat, energetic and refreshing. These tracks contain funky bass lines and hints of country-blues style. With songs like these, Prettyman proves she is much more than just a former model and surfer chick, but a full-fledged musician with a wide range of sound.
The album's final track, "In Bloom," is a heart-achingly honest song, which features a variety of string instruments and beautiful piano playing. With lyrics such as "Trees sway, seasons change and so did my heart/We bend 'til we break and then we fall apart/You made your point and I rest my case/My dear, you're just a little bit too late," it's clear that Prettyman is using her personal experiences within these past three years to connect with her listeners.
This folk songstress' voice is something to be celebrated. At times her gentle yet composed voice sounds like soft throaty whispering in your ear. Her vocals are rich and effortlessly strong. Prettyman's smoky and sultry crooning will make you think of her as our generation's Joni Mitchell.
Prettyman's fresh songs about love, life and heartbreak will take you on a journey. You feel when she is vulnerable, you feel when she is empowered and you feel how she is transitioning and growing. I admire all the emotions that she provokes with her thoughtful and intelligent lyrics and skillful guitar playing.
Prettyman is obviously evolving as a musician. Her voice and songwriting skills have improved and become much more polished since her debut album. She is often called the female Jack Johnson because of her surfing background and acoustic style, but this album proves she can surely hold her own. Her insightful, yet breezy songs are inspirational and extremely enjoyable. This album is perfect for the approaching summer time and beyond.
Prettyman recorded this album in London with famous British producers Martin Terefe and Sacha Skarbek, who have worked with musical artists James Blunt and KT Tunstall, among others.
The album's first single, "Madly," a tune about breaking up, being happy for one another and letting go, is full of energy, lively acoustic guitars and an extremely catchy chorus. This song is bouncy and vivacious, yet complex in its subject matter.
The track "You Got Me" has a mature and bluesy feel to it complimented by her seductive whisper of a voice, which makes this song brisk, cool and an absolute pleasure to listen to.
Songs like "Echo" and "Handshake" are upbeat, energetic and refreshing. These tracks contain funky bass lines and hints of country-blues style. With songs like these, Prettyman proves she is much more than just a former model and surfer chick, but a full-fledged musician with a wide range of sound.
The album's final track, "In Bloom," is a heart-achingly honest song, which features a variety of string instruments and beautiful piano playing. With lyrics such as "Trees sway, seasons change and so did my heart/We bend 'til we break and then we fall apart/You made your point and I rest my case/My dear, you're just a little bit too late," it's clear that Prettyman is using her personal experiences within these past three years to connect with her listeners.
This folk songstress' voice is something to be celebrated. At times her gentle yet composed voice sounds like soft throaty whispering in your ear. Her vocals are rich and effortlessly strong. Prettyman's smoky and sultry crooning will make you think of her as our generation's Joni Mitchell.
Prettyman's fresh songs about love, life and heartbreak will take you on a journey. You feel when she is vulnerable, you feel when she is empowered and you feel how she is transitioning and growing. I admire all the emotions that she provokes with her thoughtful and intelligent lyrics and skillful guitar playing.
Prettyman is obviously evolving as a musician. Her voice and songwriting skills have improved and become much more polished since her debut album. She is often called the female Jack Johnson because of her surfing background and acoustic style, but this album proves she can surely hold her own. Her insightful, yet breezy songs are inspirational and extremely enjoyable. This album is perfect for the approaching summer time and beyond.
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