Rabbit Fur Coat by Jenny Lewis: CD Review

I have had minimal exposure to Rilo Kiley at the moment. Only having listened to only "Portions For Foxes" and "The Execution Of All Things," I approached Jenny Lewis and her first solo album, Rabbit Fut Coat, not sure of what to expect. And honestly, I'm still not sure what to expect. I can see how some people may be able to praise Lewis for her rich storytelling and powerful country gospel sound, but it is difficult for me to judge a genre that I have little appreciation for without being negatively biased. With that said, however, none of the songs were able to hit home.

Admittedly, the album is pretty. The lyrics are compelling. The production is subtle. This album, however, does not provide an edginess to capture the audience or a glossed production for the listener to enjoy.

Despite her country charm and raw storytelling, "Rabbit Fur Coat" never manages to capture with its bare nature. "The Big Guns" is useless and lackluster. The twang of "Happy" does not save the song from it's miserable performance. If you want to forgoe anesthetics in a surgery, this song is perfect to put you to sleep.

There, however, were some enjoyable songs on the album mostly for their mostly upbeat nature. With the help of Ben Gibbard of Death Cab for Cutie and Bright Eyes' Conor Oberst, Lewis enthusiastically tackles the cover for "Handle With Care." "The Charging Sky" complements Lewis with its God-fearing lyrics and catchy country rock stance. The song, "Melt Your Heart," highlights the mournful voice of Lewis in a mesmerizing ballad.

As for the addition of The Watson Twins, the identical sisters who lend their Southern gospel vocals to many of the songs, are a fantastic addition to the album. Their rich vocals make the album incredibly lush wherever they appear, especially in the opening track of "Run Devil Run."

The vocals of the twins are, however, not enough to save Jenny Lewis from a country, folk album that I found to be simply mediocre. The evocative lyrics do not make up for a production plagued with lack of oomph and too much departure from her band's history of hooks and complex instruments. Go buy the new Rosanne Cash instead.

Grade : C

Download: Handle With Care, The Charging Sky, Melt Your Heart

Skip It: The Big Guns, Happy, Rabbit Fur Coat