Kate Nash: ‘Made Of Bricks’

Release Date: Jan. 8, 2008 [U.S.]

Label: Geffen Records

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www.katenash.co.uk

Kate Nash has gotten many comparisons to fellow British pop star Lily Allen because the two have distinctive British accents.

Sound-wise, that’s really all they have in common, other than a sassy, humorous attitude hiding in an array of serious lyrics.

Where Allen relies on heavy bass tracks and electronic drums, Nash uses more actual bass and drums to back her up, along with piano, guitar and backing vocals.

For an opener on her debut album, “Made Of Bricks,” Nash uses a hip-hop backbone to let us know she likes to “Play,” then starts out strong with the witty, break-up track “Foundations,” the album’s featured single.

“You said I must eat so many lemons because I am so bitter, I said I’d rather be with your friends, mate, ’cause they are much fitter,” sings Nash, in just one song of many where it’s obvious she doesn’t hold men in high esteem.

Nash isn’t afraid, either, to throw a track list of song names that can’t all be printed here. But a little crudeness doesn’t take away from her talent; if anything, it should make listeners a little more curious.

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Among her silly lyrics – her dental routine on “Mouthwash” – are bits of great storytelling and acoustic cadence. “Birds,” with a slowness that stands out in the middle of the album, portrays Nash’s ability to hit those high, soprano-ranged notes just as well as the alto in her rhythmic, hip-hop style tracks.

“Birds” marks a break in the album, moving the focus to slower, more serious tracks without sounding out of place. “We Get On” is a snappy, jazzy, finger-snapping ballad similar to one of Feist’s more upbeat tracks.

Then there’s “Pumpkin Soup” and “S— Song,” showing Nash likes to throw the occasional, potentially offensive oddball. Some of the songs may sound crude, but Nash keeps it all in good taste.

The best lies in the ending tracks, “Nicest Thing” and “Merry Happy.” Here, Nash mixes the best little pieces of the entire album – strings, rhythm, meaningful lyrics and a beautiful voice. The ending, a simple piano and vocal track, is a perfect ending to display Nash’s true talent, distinguishing her as a true musician from just a pop singer.

Nash is not a showstopper, though her ending proves she has the ability. “Made Of Bricks” is entertaining but lacks what it takes to make listeners keep hitting play.

Julie Engler can be reached at 536-3311 ext. 275 or [email protected].