Album Details

• Artist: Vanessa Carlton
• Album: Rabbits On The Run
• Label:
• Year of Release: 2011
• ME Rating:
• Reviewed by: tosnob on 2011-07-27

Then, I listened to her forthcoming album Rabbits On the Run. The record, her first on trendy Razor & Tie, comes out on June 21st July 26th.

Yep, the first thing you hear on the opening track "Carousel" is a piano. But it doesn't take long for Carlton's rich, yet somewhat cutsey vocals to charm you. A whip-smart allusion in the chorus, plus some group children's choir backing vocals all combine for a near-perfect pop experience. Songs like "Dear California" ensure there's no shortage of sugary pop hooks on the record.

Thematically, this record is more complex and considered than what I've come to expect from Carlton. A song like "I Don't Want To Be A Bride" manages to convey both a touching sentiment of love while at the same time asserting independence. It's a dichotomy that carries on throughout the album.

Things get really interesting when Carlton picks up a guitar. The songs become a little more defiant. Even Carlton's vocals begin to sound like those of one of my favorite strong 90s indie rock women: Juliana Hatfield. Listen to "Get Good" and I'm sure you'll agree.

It's rare that an established artist puts out an album that makes you re-evaluate your entire impression of them. That's exactly what Vanessa Carlton has done with Rabbits On the Run.

User Reviews and Comments

on 2011-09-14 hstisgod Said:

wow...went and listened, its quite a bit darker than what i remember...a bit weirded out lol
Not Rated