Kevin Ryan - 7/31/2010

In these times when every third-rate act seems to be hyped and blogged to death it is still occasionally possible for a major talent to go largely overlooked. Despite being one of the late John Peel's favourite artists and a major influence on the currently fashionable Laura Marling, Nina Nastasia still seems to slip under most people's radar.
Outlaster is Nina's sixth album and in some ways it's more of the same. Steve Albini's sensitive production again creates a sense of space for Nina's remarkable voice to shine. There are the same small but powerful stories with lyrics that sound like snatches of overheard conversations that seem to subtly change their meaning each time you hear them. What is new is the addition of woodwind, horns and string accompaniment. The effect is sometimes lush, sometimes disorientating and dramatic but never overwhelming - there is a more gothic, melodramatic feel to the record but it is still recognisably Nina Nastasia. The album works as a complete piece but there is plenty of variation and several standout tracks - the opening 'Cry, Cry, Baby' is a wonderful slow-burner with a glorious emotive swooping vocal; 'This Familiar Way' reinvents the tango; and 'You Can Take Your Time' is lilting understatedness. Maybe Nina Nastasia is never destined to become flavour of the month but perhaps that's not a bad thing. Those lucky ones who do find 'Outlaster' will surely end up hugging this album close.