Aimee Mann - The Forgotten Arm

Reviewed by aarik

Aimee Mann’s latest, The Forgotten Arm, is a simple but truly potent song cycle of tales about drug addiction, breakups and the open road. Delivered with Mann’s trademark sincerity, the heartbreak experienced by her characters vividly comes alive for the listener and further serves to cement her current position as one of America’s preeminent songwriters. Each of the 12 songs contained here contribute to the overall narrative but would be equally as compelling if taken out of context. Mann and her producer, Joe Henry, sought to foster an intimate and consistent musical setting that would give the album a live quality. The unembellished arrangements featured here do justice to their intention and serve the quiet desperation of Mann’s lyrics. Tastefully played guitars (highlighted by the amazing work of sidemen Jeff Trott and Julian Coryell), pianos and organs combine to give the album a roots rock vibe without overpowering any of the album’s chapters. Standouts include the melodic treasure “She Really Wants You,” the aching shuffle of “Little Bombs,” in which Mann’s characters experience “the deluge, then the drought,” and the bittersweet anthems to self-defeat “That’s How I Knew This Story Would Break My Heart” and “I Can’t Help You Anymore.” Mann has expressed how this record was especially influenced by artists like Elton John, Rod Stewart, The Band and Mott the Hoople. However, while listening I couldn’t help but think of Mann as a female counterpart to the master purveyor of songs about ordinary people and extraordinary loss, Bruce Springsteen. Few other songwriters can fit as much substance into a three-minute pop song without going over the top. Mann pulls this delicate trick off with amazing dexterity and the result is an album whose songs and personalities will stay in your mind and on your heart long after you finish listening. [www.aimeemann.com]

Aug 27 2005