A somewhat freak move by the randomizer today, sees the second review by an Ottawa native. For some reason, everyone seems to think that this is Alanis’s first album, but in reality it is her third – the first two being dance pop records. The departure in sound and style is incredible because this album is a nailed on bomb classic and has sold 33 million copies.
Produced by Glen Ballard, and she is joined by a who’s who of the alternative scene at the time, namely Flea, Dave Navarro, Matt Lang, and Benmont Tench, make this album a sonic masterpiece. But the undoubted star of the show is Alanis herself. Very personal first person lyrics, and the vocal delivery is just incredible. You Oughta Know is one of the best songs of the era, and her vocal delivery is so emotive and heartfelt that I never tire of hearing it. She also has the most beautifully soft voice in quieter numbers like Perfect, and Mary Jane, when the emotion and feel is still present in a more laid back manner. I guess it’s the sign of a successful album when every song feels like a personal friend. You feel like you know them that well without playing them yourself as you hear them wherever you go. This is a definite “every home should have one”.
10/10 from The Grooveman.
