I love cheesy '80s movies. It is a real weakness -- anything starring Emilio Estevez (Maximum Overdrive, anyone?) or directed by John Hughes and I'm hooked. One of my '80s favorites is Troop Beverley Hills, an instant classic. If you haven't seen it, turn on TBS. Chances are it is playing right this minute. It will continue to be in rotation for all eternity.
One of the best characters was the troop leader's optimistic daughter, Hannah. I always wondered what happened to the little redhead, wise-beyond-her-years girl who played Hannah Nefler (well, besides a guest spot on The Golden Girls). It turned out that the little girl was Jenny Lewis, who put away her Girl Guide uniform and picked up a record deal. She gained critical acclaim as the lead of Rilo Kiley.
Rabbit Fur Coat is the first solo album by Jenny Lewis. She has the support of the Watson Twins. Interestingly, Lewis' new effort was released on the same day her fellow Rilo Kiley band member's side project, The Elected, released their new record. It would seem there is a release date showdown between the members of Rilo Kiley. Fans of Rilo Kiley, however, should rest easy. The band is not breaking up. They plan on releasing a new album in late 2006.
Lewis was inspired to record a solo album by Bright Eyes' genius, Conor Oberst. In Rabbit Fur Coat, Lewis shows her incredible writing capabilities and showcases her haunting voice, while the Watson Twins showcase their beautiful harmonizing skills. There is no doubt that this is a well-made album. Besides the amazing vocals of Jenny Lewis with the Watson Twins, producer M. Ward, Death Cab's Ben Gibbard, Maroon 5's James Valentine and Oberst all contributed to the album.
According to Lewis, Rabbit Fur Coat is a throwback to old soul music. Many of the songs, however, seem like they would fit on the O Brother, Where Art Thou? soundtrack, especially the opening "Run Devil Run." Lewis cites Patti LaBelle and Laura Nyro as inspirations. It is, however, the folk of Emmy Lou Harris that influences her sound the most.
The title track exhibits the twang of yesteryear, complimented by clever, melancholy lyrics. The song exemplifies the country guidelines of songwriting, dealing with depression and loss. One of the best tracks is the cover of the Traveling Wilbury's "Handle With Care." While not on par with the original, it boasts the indie all-star group of Lewis, Gibbard, Ward and Oberst.
One of Rabbit Fur Coat's themes is questioning faith, epitomized by the powerful lyrics and mesmerizing vocals of "Born Secular." "The Charging Sky," however, offers an ironic and humorous variation on doubt: "But what if God's not there?/But his name is on your dollar bill/Which just became cab fare." The focus on the vocals, lyrics and harmonies is one of the best things about the album. The soft and frequently sullen voice of Lewis is never overshadowed by the music. Instead, the music is a backup rather than a crutch. The acoustic folk feel of Rabbit Fur Coat combines the singing of Lewis with the Watson Twins' to create an unforgettable debut album.
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