Review:

on 2007-10-17 paperslut Said:

Bat For Lashes is the project of Natasha Khan, a Pakistani-born, English lady who, at very first listen leaves a lingering impression. I haven't been this taken by a songstress since I heard Shara Worden on Bring Me The Workhorse.

Fur & Gold, her debut record, puts Ms Khan in the best possible light. When it's quiet, it isn't as intrusive as you'd expect, and when the arrangements are larger, the effect is atmospheric. The album was nominated for the 2007 Mercury Prize and was the favourite to win (Klaxons were the eventual winners).

'Horse And I', the album opener, lays out her POA; combining synth, floaty piano and light strings with a processed beat. The collection of sounds is wonderful and though she shines brighter when the arrangement is minimal, the experience is simultaneously uplifting and depressing. Few of her peers have that ability and names like Laura Veirs and Feist come to mind though most music press give her Bjork and Kate Bush creds.

Where she differs from those stalwarts is in very distinct melodies that are built carefully, and on occasion too cautiously. 'Bat's Mouth' is one such example that is too affectedly dark for its own good. Yet, in context of the entire album, she hardly puts a step wrong.

It's hard to find lasting music like this these days.