As I listened to the album over the next few days, its impact on me never diminished. Second track “Adam” continued The Bittersweets,’ bittersweet journey, shifting the tempo up, but still managing to maintain that tender and resolute atmosphere. Other stand-out tracks include “Bag of Bones,” a meandering, softly dramatic song. Here the music feels like Prater’s own breath, sung tortuously, delicately and the effect is dynamic, a supple willow tree bending with her every sigh.
“Long Day” is an effervescent tune with perfect harmonies and melodies, filled with sorrow and weariness, but so subtle is the heartache that you might not even notice it. “Houston” sees songwriter and guitarist Meyers get a chance on lead vocals. The resulting switch in gears is an interesting addition and Meyers’ pleasingly poignant, throaty vocals add an amiable twist in the road. “Burn Out My Eyes” is a heart-rending song, Prater’s voice once again achingly delicate, and tender, the music controlled by her breathy vocal ministrations. “Shooting Out the Sky” is a beautiful ballad with all the mellow, sentimental emotion that The Bittersweets are so good at.
The Bittersweets are a band that shouldn’t be missed, and their debut album The Life You Always Wanted really should be in your music collection. Both The Bittersweets and the album will be making a regular appearance on any car journey across Scotland I make. To hear The Bittersweet’s for yourself, you can visit their MySpace space or their own website.
Article comments
1 - Shaina Somata
A, its a good CD and their first CD was the best. Of my 3 Itunes downloads of the week they were:
1. Bittersweet
2. Teddy Brent
3. Norah Jones
2 and 3 were the best. Bittersweets still are wonderful though