It might look from the cover that Samantha was playing her guitar in a garage, and that is exactly what is happening as that is where this was recorded (apart from the bass and drums which were recorded in Chile). I have lost count of how many artists I have reviewed over the years, but it is many thousands, and there are few which come across as vulnerable and real as Samantha. I have previously likened her to Wesley Willis and this latest collection reinforces that with six songs (13 minutes in length) which are hard to listen to just because here is someone baring their soul as it is something they have no choice over, they have to do it, yet also has a fear of rejection and criticism, all of which comes through in songs which are naïve yet complete.
This is Patti Smith and Jonathan Richman without their confidence, with awkwardness and yearning for acceptance on clear display for all to see and hear. The vocals may not be in tune, and the arrangements basic, with the production and mastering seemingly restricted to pressing record, yet as with the last album this pulls at me. This is just so raw, so basic, with an artist who does not expect to be played on the radio (I remember her telling me at one point that she could not bear to have anyone watch her play as she was so insecure) and is not sure if anyone will even listen to this. Music like this is incredibly important, as unlike the polished rubbish we often hear in the charts which all sounds the same, this is not someone doing this to be famous or rich, but rather has something inside her which she needs to share, even if others do not appreciate it. There are fluffs, and places where mistakes could have been corrected, but this is all about capturing the moment and when it is passed it is gone forever.
For people who want their music with no filters, by an artist who gives everything.
Rating: 7/10
