Record Review: KT Tunstall

KT Tunstall - Tiger Suit   3/5

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The raspy voiced girl with folk songs in her back pocket and a guitar in hand may have been how Tunstall entered the pop psyche, but in the years following Tunstall has gone for an edgier sound. On her third album, Tiger Suit, she tackles sleek tricked out pop songs with shimmering pianos in 'Fade Like A Shadow' and digitalized guitars in 'Difficulty'. Even the occasional dance beat is found in 'Push That Not Away'. 

Despite the album's shiny exterior there are still cracks to be found reaching for epic on the ballad 'Lost' or overly dramatic with 'The Entertainer'. The album's standout '(Still A) Weirdo' is classic Tunstall, with it's peculiar charm, even if it isn't quite suited to the album. Tiger Suit manages to feel organic even with her new found glitz and glamour, Tunstall is still a clever and honest songwriter while navigating cliches and that's the cleverest trick of all.

Single Selections: Rah Rah

Rah Rah - Arrows 3.5/5

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The pop-rock collective's lead-off single from their sophomore effort, Breaking Hearts, "Arrows" is a reminder of the band's magnitude. Thumping beats, clashing cymbals and pure energy, it's no wonder "Arrows" is finding love on CBC Radio 3's Top 30.

Shad - Yaa I Get It 5/5

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Hailing from London, Ontario, Shad is arguably one of the best hip-hop artists ever to hail from Canada. "Genetic freak, poetically".... we agree, Shad spits rhymes like the best in hip-hop. Yaa we get it, Kanye and Common take notice.

A B & The Sea - Suzie 3/5

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The San Francisco by way of Wisconsin trio, find sun, sand and a carefree vibe on their single, Suzie from the Boys & Girls EP. It's a retro pop tune that's fun and breezy. Beach Boys they are not but everyone enjoys a good hand clap now and then.

First Rate People - Gentlemen's Club 4/5

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Owen Sound's First Rate People, live up to their name with the lush, sweet harmonies, and foot taping beat of "Gentleman's Club". It's alt-pop candy that's sultry and addictive, you'll be left wanting more.

KT Tunstall - Push That Knot Away 3.5/5

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Released as a Youtube clip, the Scottish singer/songwriter takes on a booming beat, an edgier rock sound and electronic elements in her departure from her coffee house sound. It's got energy, a bit of brass, and a sweet bass solo, plus Tunstall's echoing vocals, not her best but we're not complaining.