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Scarlett Johansson
Anywhere I Lay My Head review
:. Genre: Rock
:. Year: 2008
:. Country: USA
:. Official Site: Scarlett Johansson
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Neither an abysmal failure nor a stunning success, Scarlett Johansson's debut album of ten Tom Waits songs is audacious, risky and, unfortunately, far too overproduced to feel truly authentic. At least it's not a dance record, well, except for "I Don't Want to Grow Up".
First things first — what to make of Johansson's vocals? David Andrew Sitek (TV on the Radio) produced the record and the album should really be titled after him; after all his voice truly dominates the production, not hers. The album was recorded in Louisiana and while some of that Cajun Country seeps in, the 80's seem to have been more of an influence. She's quickly drowned out by what are in fact interesting arrangements and quirky synthesizers-but her smoky damsel voice has few opportunities to stand out.
Tackling Waits lyrically is no easy feat and some arrangements are more plausible for Johansson than others. "Town With No Cheer" is rendered lifeless in her hands, while "Falling Down" (with David Bowie on backing vocals) works. Her vocals on "I Wish I Was in New Orleans" are gentle and emotive, but the wretched music box arrangement only makes you want to slam the box shut. Likewise, the 80's-inspired dance number which springs forth from "I Don't Want to Grow Up" is tragic for the lyrics but not bad for the melody. "Who Are You" and "No One Knows I'm Gone", on the other hand, are nice little shoegazer numbers.
In the end, while Scarlett Johansson is not required to be a weatherworn hobo, there might not be enough experience off of the red carpet to take these songs on. Might I recommend John Hammond's album of Tom Waits covers, Wicked Grin? It's a gem, listen after listen, year after year.
Anji Milanovic
 Tom Waits: Used Songs: 1973-1980
Tom Waits in Concert: Wiltern Theater, Los Angeles—06/13/99
Tom Waits: Mule Variations
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