Case is one of those artists that leaves listeners guessing when they attempt to find meaning in the lyrics. It’s just best to sit back and take in the multi-layers of sound and Case’s distinct voice.
Songs About the Weather
The opening track, “This Tornado Loves You” has an impressive guitar introduction that is a signature sound of Case’s band.
According to Case, “This Tornado Loves You” was written from a literal point of view. “What would it be like to be pursued by a force of nature,” Case said in a press release from her record label, Anti Records. If listeners wish to think of it as a metaphor for a torn-up relationship, Case doesn’t mind.
Animal Rights Activist
An old-fashioned wind-up music box opens the “The Next Time You Say ‘Forever,’” a song that uses weather metaphors to describe a broken relationship.
Once again, Case uses a song to show her support for the animal kingdom in “People Got a Lotta Nerve.” It points out the ridiculous notion of keeping dangerous animals caged up. In the chorus, Case sings:
“I’m a man-eater/And you’re still surprised when I eat you.” Her previous song, “The Tigers Have Spoken,” is another example of her animal rights stance.
Covers of Sparks and Harry Nilsson
Amidst the nature-related subject matter of the recording is the appropriate cover of the Sparks’ tune, “Never Turn Your Back on Mother Earth.” Case does a heart-felt version that is sincere and full of beautiful harmonies.
Knowing Nilsson’s early demise, it is all the more sad to listen to the cover of “Don’t Forget Me,” a song to his ex-wife. Case gives it a full sound with multiple piano tracks and soaring vocals.
Title Track and Other Originals Show Case's Talents
Using a waltzing melody and more music box sounds, the title track “Middle Cyclone” is a lovely composition. A simple acoustic guitar is the main instrument along with Case’s lovely voice. It is a sad song about regret and self-reflection. The following line has such a literary quality:
“Can’t scrape together quite enough/“To ride a bus to the outskirts of the fact I need love.”
Case has a knack for successfully changing tempos and switching gears quickly. One example of this is “Fever.” It starts out as a quiet composition with a finger-picking electric guitar that leads listeners to a more full sound. It has a circular tempo that gets more intense as the song continues.
Case’s Band
Joining her on Middle Cyclone are Case’s core band: guitarist Paul Rigby, bassist Tom V. Ray, backing vocalist Kelly Hogan, multi-instrumentalist Jon Rauhouse, and drummer Barry Mirochnick. Many guests contribute to the recording including M. Ward, Garth Hudson and Sarah Harmer. It was produced by Case and Darryl Neudorf.
While remaining enigmatic, Case manages to provide an accessible recording full of examples that showcase her excellent songwriting abilities and vocal strength. Middle Cyclone is a great addition to any fan of alternative music.
References:
6 March 2009 <http://www.anti.com/artists/view/13/Neko_Case>
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