RUBY THROAT – The Ventriloquist

Consistency is a double-edged sword. Sure, it produces a fabulously cohesive album. But it also has the capability to produce some downright boring albums. Happily, Ruby Throat manages to avoid a boring sound. The whole album carries the vibe of early Wilco with KatieJane Garside replacing Jeff Tweedy’s rough-around-the-edges style with vocals that delicately straddle the line between strength and vulnerability, with a slight hint of Emiliana Torrini, and always a special breed of ghostliness.

The Ventriloquist is one of the best vocal performances this year, with the track “House of Thieves” being a particular gem. Guitarist Chris Whittingham adds a beautiful folk guitar to the mix and shows that sometimes there really are superbly talented musicians busking for a living. The Ventriloquist never truly takes a wrong turn. Some parts, particularly the 16-minute-long “John 3:16,” are more of an acquired taste with extreme vocal theatrics. Overall, the album is nearly flawless. Everything works in a beautiful way. There are moments where you’ll want to change tracks, but fight through it and you will be rewarded with one of the finest debut albums you’ll hear.

(Sleep Like Wolves, no address provided)