The Catalyst

By Ellen Gaglione, Reporter

I’ve been sick of Damien Rice for quite some time now, but to write this review I can’t help but search his name out on my iPod. And turn the volume up. Not for his groggy emotional tones though. It’s Lisa Hannigan I’m in love with, these days. She’s the magic behind his music. She’s that fairy dust of a voice in the background of his songs. She’s the reason any of his music grabs you, don’t pretend that isn’t true.

Except, Lisa and Damien have broken up. Romantically- I’m not sure, but one can surely speculate. Musically- Definitely. But fear not, now the Irish girl is making magic melodies all on her own.

Released in early February of this year, her first solo album Sea Sew is much like getting quality alone time with that boy you have a crush on. It’s an opportunity so exciting, I sacrificed my computer to a virus just to download the stuff.

And the verdict? Well, I’m not really sure what I think just yet. On her own, Lisa Hannigan is much folksier than I expected. She doesn’t keep that child-like, egg-shell tone that’s so memorable in her background singing. Her accent becomes noticeable, as does her love for the ocean. This strikes me as music that you might knit some socks to; awesome colorful snuggly socks. This album just isn’t what I was expecting. But then again, what in life really ever is?

Here’s what I think you should do: get this album. Listen the whole thing twice before you make any decisions. Listen to “I Don’t Know” at least four times. And then decide what to think, but don’t delete her. Lisa Hannigan is mood music, so keep this on your ITunes because it’ll be just perfect for a certain time, and you’ll be grateful to have her there waiting for you.

But, don’t get rid of the Damien Rice stuff. That’s the Lisa Hannigan gold mine.