ELLEN ROSNER: The Perfect Malcontent

Ellen Rosner

The Perfect Malcontent

© 1999 No Genre (617311300424)

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Wry Pop and Acoustic -- Ani DiFranco meets Rosanne Cash with the Poi Dog Pondering (literally) Horn Section. Great songwriting! "WXRT Top 5"

notes

The City of Big Shoulders seems an appropriate breeding ground for singer/songwriter Ellen Rosner. Born and raised in Chicago, her music, lyrics, and presentation radiate that direct, firm handshake, what-you-see-is-what-you-get attitude that keeps Midwesterners' feet on the ground and informs their keen sense of detecting bull. Look a little deeper and you'll also find the heart of gold and unpostured sincerity that are hallmark traits of the heartland.

What sets Ellen Rosner apart from traditional confessional songwriters is a pervading sense of self awareness that lets her stand outside herself long enough to see the humor. Then there's that voice, which can either grab you by the jugular or soothe you into submission, depending upon her intent. Finally, there's the music, which ranges from bombastic grooves, to soulful, punchy workouts, or sparse acoustic textures.

Amid all of this, Rosner holds on to that Midwestern disposition by keeping her talents in perspective. She's quick to point out that in the realm of pop music, "There are only eight notes to play with. Come on, everything's been done." And yet she sees the value in her unique expression as well. As she puts it, "Nobody else is going to be Ellen." In that light, Ellen Rosner's Malcontent is our good fortune.

reviews

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  • Wonderful!
    author: Hugh Dismuke

    One of the most positive sounds I have the pleasure of listening to. Whenever I'm feeling a little down, Ellen brings me back up. I can always find this album stacked in my CD tower, between the "Stones" and "Mr. Lou Reed". A variety of upbeat selections, as well as quiet, beautiful melody's. And of course, the very powerful and lovely voice of Ellen her self. Ellen is a great hearted person to know, always smiling and positive. A 'self made' performer! It is a pleasure to know her. You go girl!!!

  • ****
    author: Persygrrrl

    Ellen Rosner - The Perfect Malcontent (No Genre) This is definitely one of those albums that has grown on me over time. And since I've been listening to nothing else for three days, this is becoming a real favorite. Ellen's music is a rocky folky pop, the sort of music made by a singer/songwriter that really doesn't fit into a neatly labeled bin. The first track, 'Perfect Malcontent', is my pick from the album as far as airplay, though 'Crash Bang Boom!' and 'Good Girl Bad Girl' are real winners too. Besides those rockers, there are some wonderful quiet moments on the album as well, such as the second track, 'Homefires' and 'Jericho'. One of my personal favorites about the album as a whole are the lyrics. Ellen's carefully chosen words are smart, and very expressive. This is an album I dare you to listen to and not be moved.

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