STYLE: Rock RATING OUR PRODUCT CODE: 50993-14837 LABEL: Big Fuss Records FORMAT: CD Album ITEMS: 1
Reviewed by Martin I Smith
This San Jose-based songwriter releases her seventh album, a collection of experimental rock songs. Unfortunately, for an artist with many records behind her, the album does not have an accomplished sound. Recorded in a home studio, the production is sub-par, though this would be forgivable were the songs themselves of a high enough quality. The trouble is, they simply aren't. While Miss Kristin could perhaps be commended for her unusual dabbling in multi-instrumentation, her efforts do not result in a smooth listening experience. Most notably, her vocal melodies often feel like they are fumbling over lyrical passages that do not flow, with a vocal tone that itself feels strained and uncomfortable in places. The record does have a few instances of more rewarding songwriting, the most memorable being the end of "Faithless Heart" which has an infectious hand-clap beat and a rousing repeat of the line "We've got to keep the faith," but otherwise 'The Runner' feels like an overly ambitious venture that falls sadly flat on the basics.
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Posted by Maggie in California @ 00:02 on Jan 2 2009
I strongly disagree with this reviewers opinion.
We own this collection and have found it to be a deep and
touching rather painfully revealing release. Miss Kristin's
vocals are unique and beautiful and yes you can hear the
pain in her voice, but that is what makes this so special
and raw. I'm sure this music was not easily expressed and
will honestly say this will go into our classic collection
because it ROCKS! Listen for yourself on Miss Kristin's
myspace site and come to your own conclusion here.
http://myspace.com/misskristin
I strongly disagree with this reviewers opinion.
We own this collection and have found it to be a deep and touching rather painfully revealing release. Miss Kristin's vocals are unique and beautiful and yes you can hear the pain in her voice, but that is what makes this so special and raw. I'm sure this music was not easily expressed and will honestly say this will go into our classic collection because it ROCKS! Listen for yourself on Miss Kristin's myspace site and come to your own conclusion here. http://myspace.com/misskristin