In House #1782: Erin McKeown's Sing You Sinners; New Patty Griffin

Over the course of four previous studio albums, singer-songwriter Erin McKeown has established a spunky, occasionally eccentric sound fortified by her bright and crystalline vocals. In places along the way she's hinted at a jazzy, pop standard flavor, and now takes it full-blown with the wonderful new Sing You Sinners, out this week on Nettwerk. Included are twelve songs written by some of the greatest tunesmiths we've ever seen: Harold Arlen, Johnny Mercer, and Cole Porter, among others, plus one original that sounds as if it was culled from the same places. McKeown's voice seems made to sing numbers like, "Get Happy," originally made famous by Judy Garland, and Fats Waller's "If You a Viper," probably the least Tin Pan Alley sounding of the set. And while the songs themselves are outstanding, this ain't no standard McKeown Sings the Standards kind of recording. Indeed, she takes plenty of liberties in putting her own stamp upon the compositions, managing to accomplish the feat without being ridiculous about it (read: no techno beats added). Instead, it's an airy and refreshing sound that emanates from Sing You Sinners, recorded almost entirely live with a studio band that included Sam Kassirer (keyboards), Todd Sickafoose (bass), and Alison Miller (drums). Erin McKeown hits the road this month for a full U.S. tour, including February 21st at the University of Montana in Missoula.

Erin McKeown

In House #1782.
Airdate: 1/10/07
Focus: New release from Erin McKeown, Sing You Sinners, plus new music from Patty Griffin, Sarah Shannon, Tom Brosseau, and more.

BONUS MP3-
Erin McKeown, from Sing You Sinners: "Get Happy" (MP3) and "Melody" (MP3)


PLAYLIST

In House PODCAST #237