Nathan Larson - Jealous God - Artemis & I Must Learn to Live Alone - Big Wheel Recreation

Review by: Chris Boehk

The ex-Shudder To Thinker has finally released his solo album and accompanying single and I'm so happy. I love these records! I made my bandmates listen to this on a recent road trip and they all made fun of me. Sorry guys, Mr. Larson doesn't sound like Braid or Small Brown Bike and he doesn't scream his vocals. No, Nathan's got some pipes on him and can sing with the best of them. He wouldn't have any trouble keeping up with ex-bandmate Craig Wedren (Craig, where's your record? We're waiting!) that's for sure.

Not only that, but ol' Nate can write some really good R&B style jams. Think of the quieter, jazzy songs from STT's last record, 50,000 BC, and take it a few steps further and you've got the new Nathan Larson sound. Most of the songs are slow ballad type songs that focus heavily on the vocals - vocals that are soft, whispery and yes, feminine. Feminine as hell and I love it! Nathan's wife, the lovely Nina Persson from the Cardigans, steps up and sings a song on this album, too.

These CD's are definitely not for those that want the "ROCK", but the "RICHIE", the Lionel Richie, that is. Think of that genre, but not as cheezeball. Maybe Nate will be on tour with Christopher Cross or Michael McDonald pretty soon.

While vocally focused, the inclusion of violins, cello, piano, saxophones, and trumpets truly make this a beautifully orchestrated record. This "unconventional" rock instruments are never overbearing, always subtle, and set a calm, almost sad mood throughout the whole record.

If you're a Shudder To Think fan, I suggest you get these CD's...and while you're at it, pick up a copy for your mom because chances are she'll like it too, but that's not necessarily a bad thing.