Rose Melberg
Portola
Double Agent
Rose’s wonderfully sweet voice is nestled once again amongst subdued, mostly acoustic guitars, melting hearts under sweaters. The songs are tender and warm yet ache here and there, a style fans of the Softies should recognize as quickly as they recognize the voice.
Portola is a collection of mostly unreleased songs Rose has recorded at different times, with different people, for different reasons (the liner notes explain all that better than I could); still it flows well as an album. Her originals are as strong as ever and the covers are well-chosen and lovingly executed. This is a must for anyone who has liked past bands she’s been involved with (the Softies, Tiger Trap, Gaze, Go Sailor), or a nice introduction. Either way, a must. Double Agent, Box 82, Cambridge, MA 02140; http://www.doubleagent.com
