Beth
Marlin – Let Me In (Bambaker Records)
Beth Marlin is probably best known as an award
winning singer-songwriter, writing and performing mainly for children. During a
high-profile career, she’s worked with Disney and the Olsen Twins, and released
four albums aimed squarely at the children’s market. She’s also been
Editor-in-Chief of both the Paris-Insider and SFBay-Insider, and has now
launched a YouTube channel, talking about, and reviewing various San Francisco
events, restaurants, etc. All told, that’s a busy life, but I’m glad she’s
found the time to write and record “Let Me In”, her first album for grown-ups.
Recorded with some of the best session musicians
California had to offer, “Let Me In” has been described as a return to her folk
roots. If by that they mean classic, ‘70s, West Coast singer-songwriter fare,
then I’m happy to concur. Joni Mitchell and the ladies from the canyon are
obvious influences, and Marlin even shares Mitchell’s Francophile sensibilities
on tracks like “Paris Calling” and “Je Reve De Toi”. “Paddle Down” is altogether more country influenced,
though it feels old and sun-bleached, a million miles away from the Nashville
archetype, and “Holy Man Walkin’” rolls in on a Buffy St. Marie vibe. I should
also mention, producer Jon Baker has done a first-rate job. It all sounds incredibly
warm and personable.
Rob F.
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