Prior to
Loneliest in the Morning,
Julie Doiron was part of the influential Canadian band
Eric's Trip. In the later days and eventually at the end of the band,
Doiron released a 7" and a full-length record of material on her own label, Sappy Records, under the name Broken Girl.
Loneliest in the Morning is the first solo release from Sub Pop by
Doiron under her own name. The first aspect of
Loneliest in the Morning that strikes the listener is the minimal nature of the musical elements. The guitar provides the subtle rhythm, while
Doiron's voice is captivating and enchanting. A melancholy undertone exists in the direct nature of the vocals, perhaps in a style of
Aimee Mann, or the depth of
Cat Power with straight-ahead lyrics. "Tell You Again" is a sweet lullaby, where bass and piano creep in, gently adding their touch to the soundscape. All of the songs are very personal and revealing;
Doiron confesses her deepest. "Le Soleil" is the beautiful closer. The vocals carry the melody while the guitar opens the song up wide. The production is of great quality, giving the listener a sense that
Doiron is actually playing in the room. Photos by
Doiron and paintings by her husband, Jon Claytor, add a wonderful packaging element to round off a great record. ~ Francis Arres