Sweet Heart Rodeo

Sweet hearted, folk-voiced, and occasional member of Hem, Dawn Landes released her fourth (third if we aren’t counting her self released) album, Sweet Heart Rodeo, Jan. 19. Born in Louisville, Kentucky but based in New York, Dawn Landes combines alternative and country to create a “sweet heart rodeo.” If it were needed to compare her voice to another musician, I’d say a new age Sheryl Crow. If it was needed to compare her music to another musicians, I’d be speechless.

Remember that song a few summers ago, “Young Folks” (Peter, Bjorn & John)? Dawn Landes is known for covering it with the WST Band, while putting a bluegrass spin on it.

The Album starts off alternative with “Young Girl.” With lyrics that start off a little dirty, Landes expresses why she doesn’t like this young girl. “Young girl I don’t like you, everybody wants to stand beside you.” While the lyrics make subtle references to the title of the album, the percussion and guitar are what make this song danceable.

Everyone knows what it’s like to be let down or waiting all day to hear from the man you’re so interested in. Oh, everyone’s had a crush before. “Romeo” is a song about a girl persistently trying to be with this guy, but after being let down for so long she had to let go with the mindset, “What goes around comes around.”

“Money In The Bank” is a song that introduces the horns to the album while slowing down the pace. The most country we find on the album is found in “Sweetheart of the Rodeo.” It’s an upbeat song that puts you in the wild, wild West. Landes took the typical Johnny Cash beat and spiced it up a bit with intense harmonica and pick guitar. Not to mention the baritone male vocals used as an instrument in the background, this is a complete old-fashioned country song. I don’t know why, but to me, it somewhat resembles the Highway Men (“Ghost Riders in the Sky”).

Okay, I’m sure I’m not the only one, but I had this Yamaha Portasound Keyboard when I was in elementary school, and “Clown” certainly starts off with one of those demo rhythms that come with the keyboard. “You know how to shake that thang, run around around again, you-hoo chase anything.” A lot is going on, but with the clapping, kazooing, laughter and lyrics, the song is entertaining and fun.

With a quick guitar tempo while being a chill song, Landes starts to sing about a relationship between two girls who work together. “Little Miss Holiday…” “They put you in a film that you couldn’t play the part of yourself, okay, show your face. No one knows your name.”

Acoustic instruments always grab my attention and I think that’s why I enjoy this folk album. “Dance Area” expresses Landes’ beautiful vocals and musical advice. She says that money isn’t that important but if you’re broke, why not dance since dancing’s free? “If you’re going to be a broke little bunny, you better get on the floor and dance with me.”

In “Brighton,” Landes starts singing an octave higher and pulls it off so well. The combination of her voice and the slow violins in the background, it’s a positive, peaceful song to listen to.

Catchy, catchy, catchy. Less than two minute long, “All Dressed in White” has to be one of the catchiest songs on the album. No, there aren’t any words. There are vocals, but just doo doo’s and dum da da’s. It starts off mixing beats and melodies and then she comes in with her vocal instrumental. The song practically moves directly into, “Tous les garçons et les filles.” I don’t speak French. I don’t really enjoy the French language, but this song is beautiful. Percussion picks up heavy at the chorus and keeps it interesting. I wish I knew what she was talking about. Someone listen to it, translate it, and get back to me.

With the help of Dartmoor Music, Landes kind of chant/sings the final track on the album, “Love.” It’s kind of cluttered and my least favorite song to listen to on the album. Safe to say, if I ever put the CD in I would not go to track 12 willingly. Pretty much the album ends with obnoxious screaming and then a little chuckle from Landes. Meh, maybe some find it creative and fun.

Although this alternative artist has a country vibe to her, I’d consider it folk. Overall, this Sweet Heart Rodeo was almost perfect. All different emotions are expressed throughout the album and it’s easy to listen to. I bought the album on iTunes for $9.99, and I’m definitely not upset with my purchase.