Pippa
Drysdale – Bluebird (Independent)
An Australian, born in Africa, and now spending her
time in New York, London and Perth (while following a relentless touring
schedule that takes in the UK and Europe), Pippa Drysdale’s roots are probably
in her music, one of her few constants in a busy life. Her songs -
confessional, honest, life-affirming – are generally played on piano, and exist
in a genre shared by Feist, Fiona Apple and Tori Amos. “Bluebird” is her fourth
album, and every lyric and melody is her own, every word sung, Drysdale sings,
and the list of secondary instruments she plays includes vibraphone, guitars
and Hammond organ. She’s joined by Chris Vallejo on bass (and other instruments),
and percussionist Josh Shubert.
Beginning with the pure pop tones of “The Angel
Song”, its façade of simple, quirky delights disguises something altogether
more complex, and is beautifully executed. “Razorblade Spoon” takes a more
recognisable route - though the result is just as pleasurable, and as with all
of “Bluebird” there’s much satisfaction to be found in Drysdale’s wordplay. Of
course, on “(Je Ne Peux Pas Te Dire) Adieu” it may not be quite as obvious, but
a breezy tune and a generous helping of charm carry the day.
Phil S.
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