Review: Nicki Jane – Of Pigeons and Other Curiosities

NICKI JANE
OF PIGEONS AND OTHER CURIOSITIES

Shaman

Yes, it is comforting to know that there is still enough space in the world for a little dark cabaret. On Of Pigeons and Other Curiosities, Nicki Jane swings around her guitar or piano with a bitter assurance reminiscent of Nick Cave. Through restraint, she’s more subtle than Voltaire, providing a more entertaining twist when a rather casual story suddenly takes a turn down a dark alley. Although she typically performs solo, the decision to record the songs as a full band was a wise decision for the album. The starkness of a solo performance wouldn’t be nearly as effective. However, I imagine live she’s quite brilliant in casting her spells over an attentive audience. Perhaps an invitation to Dark Arts 2005 is in order.

 

This review originally appeared in Glitter Gutter Trash, August 2004, Issue 188.