Label: Sub Pop Records/Transgressive Records
Review by Warren Mayocchi
Prominent bass lines, jangling guitar flourishes, whimsical vocals bordering on the disinterested – it all adds up to “I’m Not Your Man” by Marika Hackman. The album generally sticks to 80’s alt-pop style infused with 90’s grunge. A shorter version of that description could be dream pop. The album is full of simple melodies and half spoken vocals. At its best there is a hook in the music to invoke the listener’s curiosity which leads to an interest in catching the regularly witty lyrics. However, much of the time there is not enough tonal strength in the music to retain attention. Then, while drifting along with the tunes, there is not enough in the general ambience to make the music memorable. Having said that, in the mix there are some mighty fine tracks. The ones which appeal to you might be different, but I particularly like “Apple Tree” with its hint of Ennio Morricone, the vocal layering in “So Long”, and the gradually blooming beauty of “I’d Rather Be With Them”. If you decide to watch the music videos for “Boyfriend” [here] and “My Lover Cindy” [here] you will see a good idea of what to expect from “I’m Not Your Man”. While it will probably appeal most to fans of indie folk/rock, there are definitely a few songs worth the investment for anyone.
Rating – 78/100
Tracklist
- Boyfriend
- Good Intentions
- Gina’s World
- My Lover Cindy
- Round We Go
- Violet
- Cigarette
- Time’s Been Reckless
- Apple Tree
- So Long
- Eastbound Train
- Blahblahblah
- I’d Rather Be With Them
- AM
- Majesty