Since her critically acclaimed debut “Dogs,” Nina Nastasia’s rawness and wit have led her to be championed by many seminal figures including the late John Peel. Now with her first album in over two years, she’s back to show us why she isn’t just another girl with a guitar.
Contrary to previous releases, “Outlaster” makes use of luscious orchestral arrangements, which is as much a step forward for her as it is for her label FatCat. Working again with influential producer Steve Albini, Nina Nastasia has managed to create an absolute beauty of a record. Mournful yet optimistic; rich yet delicate; “Outlaster” shows exactly why so many have said so much for so long. While some might miss the overt rawness of earlier albums many will be pleasantly surprised by her cinematic new stance. Thanks in part to arranger Paul Bryan (Grant Lee Buffalo, Aimee Mann, Allen Toussaint, Mavis Staples and Lucinda Williams) the album ebbs and flows like a true classic. Dealing with themes of seclusion and perseverance it showcases Nastasia’s talent for constructing poignant but modest lyrics and is proof that moving forward is a good thing. “Outlaster” is undoubtedly one of the most affecting, dramatic albums to be released so far this year.
9/10, out 7 June 2010
Words by Mike Fawcett
