Perfectly Broken by Alex Sweeton

a Review by Amy Lotsberg Producer of Collected Sounds

When I heard Alex Sweeten's preiouvs record, I wasn't able to think of anything to write about it. It just was not very memorable. It wasn't bad, not by a long stretch. It's just that I didn't feel that I could pick her out of a line up. She sounded like so many other artists I hear everyday.

But I'm glad I gave this one several listens because I like it better each time.

Her voice is stronger and her songwriting is as well. Who knows maybe if I put that previous record on again I'd like it better. Maybe she's not that different this time, but for some reason, this release is much better…in my opinion. I'd put her in the AAA category. Not fully folk, not fully rock, not fully pop, but maybe a mixture of the three.

Her melodies are pleasing (if a little predictable at times) and are quite hook-y on some tracks. I really enjoy her lyrics. They're not exactly story songs, though you can kind of feel the story behind the sentiments.

"Easier to Lie" is a good example of some ear catching lyrics: "I'll fall apart over here, just ignore me."

"Goodbye Without Leaving" is a devastating look at sticking with a relationship out of a sense of obligation rather than love. Quite sad. .

"Never Become" is about not looking like the magazines say you should. About being enough. (See, not all songs have to be about love)

So each of the songs have something good to offer, but "If you See Me" is the real stand out to me. It's beautiful. I also like "Junkie" with its echoey sound, very cool.

This is a good record and I am interested to see where she takes her music in the future.

Posted on April 27, 2007