2008 : 13-14 Two tracks by Jenny Lewis

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"Acid Tongue" As I've written about Lewis before, I'm utterly convinced she would have been just as relevant and emotional had she been singing in the 1940s or 50s. This song is no exception. The combination of sadness and hope are perfect, with neither one dominating, but blending into an atmospheric haze. It's the soundtrack of sitting in a bar after a bad week and feeling a little sorry for yourself. To be lonely is a habit Like smoking or taking drugs And I've quit them both But man, was it rough. "Carpetbaggers" I'm sure that most of my co-workers have wished bodily harm against me, since I've played this song dozens of times. It's unbelievably catchy and a piece of alluring storytelling. I can easily imagine the Decemberists covering this one: They come to town when the war is over Dirty boots in the middle of the night Trolling the bars, hitting on the soldiers Boys give it up without a fight They say, "Hey, boy, how about your place? I know you really want to take me home" Drop the bags off on the bedroom floor They make love with the lights on It's also a testament to Lewis's prowess as a vocalist that she can duet with a legend like Elvis Costello and completely overshadow him. That's not to say that he doesn't fit in on this track; but there's no denying that this is a Jenny Lewis song, despite the amazing collaborations on the entire disc. —Jamie Yates Listen: Jenny Lewis >> "Acid Tongue" | "Carpetbaggers"