The Reminder

Have I mentioned how much I love Leslie Feist?

My obsession with her began back in the late 90's when she fronted a little Calgary punk band named Placebo. Her vocals were stunning and powerful a la Pale Pink Tiger. (Hmmm, I wonder why she ended up with some vocal cord issues.) We followed her from gig to gig. We pretended we were friends with the band because we talked to them once or twice and because we were all the same age. I used to peek at her around the shelves of the local Blockbuster, trying to surreptitiously determine what movies she was renting and who she was with. I was in awe of her incredibly easy style and dazzling talent.

Nothing has changed.

I began this blog on the day that I had picked up her new solo release, Let it Die, back in 2004. I remember that day like it was a moment ago. It was a colliding of worlds, the ending of some, the beginning of others. I had spent that day in court for a situation with an ex that I would never have guessed myself to be in. On top of that I did this with a completely broken heart due to the long overdue attempt at distancing myself from an emotionally dangerous relationship. My grandmother had just passed away. Inspite of the bleakness of that October day, I remember the warmth that washed over me with the opening notes of Gatekeeper. Life seemed so much less tragic with that voice in the world. I went that afternoon to a little internet cafe (I'm sure you can guess the one) where I could put some words down... for posterity, for peace, for the chance to see what the future held? I am not sure.... but Ms. Feist has seen me through some dramatic, poignant, strange days.

The last chance I had to see her was the Calgary Folk Fest in 2006. It was, for me a perfect concert experience, having never heard her out of doors under open sky. However, I realized that like a jealous lover I could have done without the other 20000 brand new Feist fans. The intimate settings of the old Westward Inn and Republik were a little more my style, however Leslie and I have both grown up it seems and so onto more adult venues we go. She will be here again in May but alas, we will be out of the country. (I will pout just a little).

To soothe my wounds I am reveling in the smooth sounds of the new album, The Reminder. It officially comes out May 1st, but we have had it for a couple weeks now, mostly because Gavan has super magical skills. It is quietly lush with Feists vocals as the primary instrumentation. The way any true fan would have it. The Nina Simone cover of Sealion Woman is wonderful, even though being a Nina Simone fan myself I was a little hesitant to hear such a great song covered, but Feist proves to be a master at the cover, her Let It Die covers becoming quick favorites. This album is definetly on my recommend list.