You Are Here by Squonk Opera

a Review by Anna Maria Stjärnell

Squonk Opera has existed for quite some time, releasing their wild and unclassifiable records and performing stage shows.

“You are here” is a stage show as well as a record. Jackie Dempsey plays piano and accordion and writes the songs. Christina Acosta provides the sweet, occasionally operatic vocals. The theatrical element is obvious, but I don’t mean that in a bad way.

“Red Stats” propelled by Dempsey’s piano and Acosta’s high vocals soon gains speed and sounds very prog rock.

“Little Flowers” is softer and more pliant, but Squonk are still impossible to pinpoint. It’s quite jazzy but not in any traditional sense.

“All eyes on you” is almost Irish folk, Acosta’s vocals and the accordion in perfect synch.

The gorgeous “Open twinkle” is folksy but has an urban rhythm.

Squonk Opera’s new album belongs in its own genre and rewards any listener that gives it time.

Posted on February 23, 2007