Martha Wainwright has quite the family lineage, being the offspring of Loudon Wainwright III and folk singer Kate McGarrigle and having the very infamous hermanito Rufus; it's no surprise to anyone that she would be inclined to express herself musically. And of everyone in her family, this girl has the spark — the songwriting stylings of her father and the voice of her mother. And let me say that I am a fan of Rufus, but Martha has that edge, vocally and lyrically that's missing from his muse.

So besides having the best title for a record this year, Bloody Mother Fucking Asshole, to me is a statement of her brevity. This is Martha announcing to the music world "look out! This is me — I am singer, hear me loud and proud!" And I am one music fan who's glad that she's finally arrived.

So if you're wondering who Martha sounds like, think a young Emmylou Harris meets the lyricism of early Ani Difranco of old. Martha's writing and recording songs that would make Ani proud. I wish Ani was making music like this — cutting edge, brash and alluring.

"Poetry is no place for a heart that's whore." That's the first line of opening title track on Martha's EP. What a way to open a song, through out this record Martha croons confessions, stripped, lyrically and musically beautiful with her acoustic guitar. Co-producer does right by showcasing Martha's voice and not trying to lay too many effects and vibes by letting her songs shine alone. I loved the skronky feedback in "It's Over." The way Martha wails over the electric guitar, I can picture her outside of someone's NYC apartment with her amp playing the fuck out of this song just so he could hear how she feels. I felt her pain.

Although "When the Day is Short," is the only song with a full band, it's every bit as effective as the rest of the album. As Martha sings, "I don't care if you love me tomorrow…I'll be alright," you actually believe her. I love the slight pause before the end, wishing the song wouldn't end. That's when you know you have discovered a great artist — you need to hear more of her. The only drawback of Bloody Mother Fucking Asshole is that it's only an EP. I wanted to hear so much more of Martha Wainwright.

You may have seen Martha sing backup for her brother on one of his many Want One tours. And her music was also featured in the Laura Linney motion picture P.S., so don't be surprised to hear more of this wonderful young singer/songwriter. I can't wait until her full-length album comes out. If this EP is any indication I'm sure it's going to be Bloody Fucking Amazing.

Similar albums:
Shivaree - Who's Got Trouble?
Cat Power - Moon Pix
PJ Harvey - Uh Huh Her


Adrian Ernesto Cepeda
03.02.2005