Courtney Yasmineh CD Review

Courtney Yasmineh
Beautiful Lonely
Self-released
****
Not everyone is going to like this album, but those that do will love it.
This is the third album by talented singer/songwriter Courtney Yasmineh. Courtney has spent the last fifteen years writing and performing. Her song writing talents have been compared to those of Leonard Cohen. Bob Dylan, Paul Simon and Elton John’s song writing skills have influenced Courtney’s own song writing over the years. Courtney was also influenced by the writing skills of Emmylou Harris and Daniel Lanois on the smash hit album WRECKING BALL Courtney has varied musical influences including Kanye West, Green Day, Lucinda Williams and Wilco. Her voice has echoes of many famous female singers in it – Natalie Merchant, Sheryl Crow and Lucinda Williams to name just a few. Courtney already has a strong fan base but many believe that this is the album that will really get her name and music noticed among music listeners and critics alike. The album starts off with In Common, an interesting number with a rather jumbled up sound. Courtney’s vocals are rather delicate yet still forceful. There is something quite enigmatic about Courtney’s vocals. Brother is a heavier number with a dark sound. Rachael Sage comes to mind on listening to this song. Part I Like is a lighter number with lively backing music. This song has a folk/country feel. Stones has a strong Lucinda Williams/Lucy Kaplansky vibe going on. An enjoyable song, definitely a highlight of the album. Hurt A Girl has a catchy hook and a slight experimental feel. Strong lyrics punctuate all of Courtney’s songs, offering listeners a rich tapestry of stories to focus in on. The title number Beautiful Lonely is an attractive song with a delicate feel. This song gives the listener a real chance to experience Courtney’s stunning vocals. Daydrunk is a vibrant lively song again with delicate vocals. Daydrunk is one of Courtney’s personal favourites off the album. Stars, is a slow song, which sounds beautiful. There are echoes of Victoria Williams in Courtney’s vocal style on this particular number. Luna Moth and Prison are both catchy numbers with a definite alt-country feel about them. All too soon the final song emerges and it is a real gem - Seven Times As Lucky. Perfection in a song if that is possible. Not everyone is going to like this album, but those that do will love it. Fans of Courtney’s music will be pleased to know that she is touring at the end of 2009.