Liquorice

Featuring the vocal and guitar-playing talents of Simple Machines/Tsunami's Jenny Toomy, Liquorice's lilting acoustic-bred and noisier leanings charm and sway with a vulnerable-but-resisting, heartbroken spirit. When Toomy sings "Why raise a fist if you can't lift a finger?" it's enough to bring tears and goose bumps. Songs are comprised of painfully nostalgic, reverb-drenched piano and sharp, self-editing drums as well -- it's not an entirely acoustic affair. A comparison to the Spinanes' Arches and Aisles is warranted; Warren DeFever's crafty production, like John McEntire's on Arches, imparts an uncommonly creative element. Still, it's Toomy that's tearing you down here: hers is the sound of sincerity, talent, and painful honesty.