SPILL ALBUM REVIEW: JESSICA PRATT – QUIET SIGNS

Jessica Pratt
Quiet Signs
City Slang/Mexican Summer

For her latest album, Quiet Signs, Jessica Pratt embraces a psychedelic ambiance reminiscent of early Stevie Nicks. This is not the kind of record that will have audiences on their feet, strumming air guitars along with the music; it is made more for swaying and solitary contemplation. Pratt knows what her fans want to hear and in that regard, Quiet Signs delivers on all fronts. However, for those unfamiliar with her previous work, it will be a far less enjoyable listen.

Although the songwriting is superb, it is often difficult to decipher due to the album’s airy production. For most of the time, I had no idea what Pratt was saying, and while she sings in a very pretty way, the imprecise delivery detracts from the overall value of the song. Likewise, the instrumentals are bare-bones, with each track composed of three repeating chords.

If you are a fan of very simplistic folk music, you will probably enjoy Quiet Signs. However, if you are interested in a more complete, well-rounded sound, hit the skip button.

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