After countless musicians have tried to capture the beauty of love in diction of elaboration, Damien Rice proves once again that the most effective lyrics are the simpler. In his sophomore album, “9,” Rice pays homage to the pitfalls that accompany real, raw relationships.Saturday Night Rating: 4.5/5 stars (Warner Bros.; 2006)
The album has a different feel from the debut “O,” its intensity propelling the music to another level: the songs on “9” are far more defined, with a specific sound for each track. In “Dogs,” Rice takes on a more upbeat croon reminiscent of – dare I say it? – Jason Mraz. “Rootless Tree,” perhaps the most experimental and deviant song on the album, features an edgier Rice, protesting against invisible binds.
“9” showcases the wide range of Rice’s repertoire, and in a musical world deprived of quiet simplicity, Rice delivers with an album perfect for sitting reflection after a bad day. It’s been a while since someone made the music of pain sound this good.
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