Old friend, new music...

Once, long long ago, I knew a girl. She was cool, and sharp, and musically inclined...I was too wrapped up in my own head to be of much use to anyone. I managed to sort out reality a bit and have spent the ensuing years in various relatively productive pursuits, making new mistakes, having two rather exceptional boys and, more or less, staying challenged and bemused. I finally figured out a way to do what I love...and work in and with books. Life is good.

She went to Smith in art history and film studies...and kept playing music. She did a bit of this and that...and kept playing music. She has played with Lou Reed and Joan Osborne...Sarah Silverman and, notably, Joan As Police Woman. She has just released her first solo mini-LP (in which she, like an early Laurie Anderson, is responsible for all one hears). I'll admit that it panders to my tastes...but that said, it is simply fabulous. Others agree (review, review, reviews and an interview, FBGroup).

Her name is Rainy Orteca. The album Dead Air and can be found on iTunes and elsewhere for much more. It may not change your life, but it will make your day a bit less annoying...

My only complaint, as was voiced in at least one review, is that at only 6 tracks it is over just as you are beginning to be lost in it (repeat helps). I have it on good authority that a full length album is in the works. I will be looking forward to it.

I am, overall, pleased and proud of the things I have acheived. Listening to Rainy...musically and lyrically...is humbling.