Imogen Heap
Speak For Yourself
2005, Megaphonic/RCA Victor/Sony BMG
electronic, alternative pop

In this sophomore album, Heap has opened an entirely new auditory world to her listeners. Speak for Yourself features songs that are as elegant as they are sprawling, and as controlled as they are rebellious. Her use of multi-layered effects, one of which is her slightly imperfect but distinctive voice, immerses you until you can’t focus on anything but what you hear.

Heap’s lyrics are just as imperfect as her voice. In fact, they remind me of poetry. At first or second (or infinite) listens, they sound almost nonsensical and disjointed, but everything fits together perfectly. From the haunting acapella of “Hide and Seek” to the sweeping “Closing In,” this one album and one artist you will never forget.

“Hide And Seek,” “Headlock,” “Clear The Area.”
myspace, last.fm
Thrice’s The Alchemy Index, Vol. 2, Radiohead’s In Rainbows*