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Leah Callahan: Cut Ups – Album Review
Leah Callahan: Cut Ups (Self Released) CD | DL | Streaming Out Now Cut Ups is Bostonian Leah Callahan’s third album in 18 months, following 2021’s pairing Simple Folk and Short Stories, following a break of 15 years. The influence of David Bowie, and the artist’s lifelong fascination is evident throughout this album, not least […]
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Leah Callahan: Cut Ups
CD | DL | Streaming
Out Now
Cut Ups is Bostonian Leah Callahan’s third album in 18 months, following 2021’s pairing Simple Folk and Short Stories, following a break of 15 years.
The influence of David Bowie, and the artist’s lifelong fascination is evident throughout this album, not least in the title itself. The singer explained, “I’m getting massive inspiration from his work in what I’m calling my version of musical “fan fiction”, borrowing everything from Bowie’s plastic soul rhythms (for the BPMs), to his obsession with the esoteric realm (Diabolique), and cut-up songwriting method (Cut-Ups).”
To round it all up she performs an adulatory take on Bowie’s glorious Look Back in Anger. There is a density to the production of Cut Ups which gives it an occasional slightly off-kilter, other-worldly feel, yet it’s warm and inviting. It engulfs the listener, allowing the individual to lose themselves in Callahan’s rich and sultry vocals. The album consists of 10 tracks, or perhaps rather vignettes on a better word, each lasting around 3 minutes, with tales of people and places through her eyes.
Let’s Go Dance is the sequel to the track Party on the previous album, although this time wanting to rebel and stay out rather than invite the listener to her own home; while City Lights hints at adventures of the artist’s youth. Other tracks, such as Cordelia appear to be Callahan looking at her position in life, content with her choices; whilst my favourite track, Hoi Polloi is a critique of those who have it all but will never be truly satisfied.
Although this isn’t the most ‘instant’ of the trilogy of albums that has been released over the last 18 months, I would say after repeat listens it is the most rewarding. Leah is a natural storyteller and is gaining confidence with each album.
For more information on Leah, you can find her on Bandcamp, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
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All words by Iain Key. See his author profile here or find him on Twitter as @iainkey
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