Bonnie Pink's debut was an unheralded affair in Japan, but those who hunted down the mini-album were probably pleased with this mix of rock and R&B from the 22-year-old singer/songwriter, who was still in college when the album was being recorded. The first thing that stands out is
Bonnie Pink's voice, deep and soulful, wise beyond her years, able to play confidentally with a melody, brave enough to jump up into the top of her range in "Freak" when you least expect it. The second thing you notice is the songwriting: strong, hook-laden rock and pop numbers, sunny music with funky, jangly guitars and smart, snappy drums. And then the unexpected: the
Buffalo Daughter-produced track "Freak" with its
Portishead-like moodiness and its menacing foghorn synths, unlike anything
Bonnie Pink's done ever since. The album closes with the magnificent "Maze of Love" and "Orange," which is full of
Clapton-ish slide guitar work and some prime rock jamming. Worth hunting down.