I want to pursue songwriting, even though I've only written a couple of songs, and produce my own indie album. I want to publish a novel, or a collection of poetry. I want to join the Peace Corps and gain new perspective. I want to be a teacher (I think!). I want to get to know anyone willing to wear their soul on their sleeve. I wear my soul on my sleeve. I want to get to know people who don't wear their soul on their sleeve.
Nora Keyes has a very ordinary, girl-next-door type of name. But her sound and quirky personality are far from ordinary. Thus far, Ms. Keyes has released one very creepy album entitled "Songs to Cry for in the Age of Nothing." The first song I heard was "Small Apart" (which is available to listen to on LastFM and her Myspace). "Small Apart" starts off and is punctuated throughout by Nora's cackling. It's a very witchy, catchy sound, but Nora's flamboyant attire and kitschy vocal techniques are not sly methods intended to distract you from her voice. In fact, Nora has a lovely singing voice, which even is evidenced in "Small Apart" (in between cackles). I was immediately reminded of Siouxsie Sioux when I saw a video of her. However, Siouxsie Sioux has a slower pace to her songs, and I believe they would be considered more exemplary of the Gothic genre.
Nora's sound is unsettling; an ideal backdrop for a haunted house, or a somber symphony for the undead. At times warbling, Nora's voice is beautiful and unique. I really can't think of anyone who sounds similar (in terms of vocals). Others who contributed to the album include:
Rebecca Lynn (violin)
Ray Day (guitar)
Creekbird (bass/drums)
Dame Darcy (auto harp/saw)
Lyrical content varies manically in Ms. Keye's Album. From insulting ("Look at You, You're Ugly) to soft and reminiscent ("Old Pal"-actually a Jimmy Rogers cover) Nora has sprawling songs and lyrics that are interesting and eclectic.
Nora was previously in a band, The Centimeters. She is currently working on an album in collaboration with Don Bolles.
Below is a live performance that I just love. Nora has a deadpan expression throughout the piece, and her cackles are fantastic. Enjoy :)
heh, I suddenly remember where I know this sort of "laugh-inducing" songs from. The is a rather famous German Cabaret-song from the early 30's named "Das lach Lied" It's later translated by ,I believe, George Younce
It basically starts with a rather inane Humpa-Humpa on piano ,and all the singer does is going "Ha-Ha-Ha-Ha" with it. Completely mad, but every one will laugh along, how ever much of a curmudgeon. It's even called "one of the most dangerous songs on earth" Most peeps end up with a sore belly from laughing...
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heh, I suddenly remember where I know this sort of "laugh-inducing" songs from. The is a rather famous German Cabaret-song from the early 30's named "Das lach Lied" It's later translated by ,I believe, George Younce
ReplyDeleteIt basically starts with a rather inane Humpa-Humpa on piano ,and all the singer does is going "Ha-Ha-Ha-Ha" with it. Completely mad, but every one will laugh along, how ever much of a curmudgeon. It's even called "one of the most dangerous songs on earth" Most peeps end up with a sore belly from laughing...
Greetz from "Diakrite" a.k.a. Jay-Em for friends