Sophie B. Hawkins - Bad Kitty Board Mix

As Sophie herself says, "For me, this CD is about the improvisations, not the songs you already know, it's about what they become in front of you, totally raw, exposed and new every night, reaching for something real, reaching for something that sounds like an instrument of our heart using the breath of our soul to speak, to cry out." Album Description

What every Sophie fan has been waiting for!

Finally, a live album by the great and ever-so-underappreciated Sophie B. Hawkins. I had the great fortune to see her live (and even greater fortune to meet her) back in January, so I can safely say that this double-album captures her live performance perfectly, in Seattle and Sydney. 2 cites half a world away from each other bonded by the great music of Sophie. What's not to love?

As with most of Sophie's live shows, these 2 concerts were recorded in small venues, allowing for a more intimate experience, both for the audience as well as for Sophie herself. As was the case when I saw her live, she is joined by a drummer and keyboardist. Sophie does the rest. What's really amazing is that they all contribute to a "full band" effect without having a full band. Goes to show the talent involved.

Now I'll comment on some key technical aspects:

Sound quality: As expected, superb. I have noticed, however, that on a few songs (ie: "Before I Walk On Fire" and "I Want You") the keyboard seems distant and a little muffled. But other than that it's fine. Audience noise is only heard during applause after songs, which is definitely a plus. There's nothing I hate more than live recordings that capture conversations or outbursts from the crowd.

Track listing: Can't complain. I would have loved it if Sophie had performed "Carry Me" and "Right Beside You" here, but alas. All of her hits are here though, and that's good enough. And FYI, the second disc contains 2 bonus tracks, extra performances of "As I Lay Me Down" and "Feelin' Good" recorded in Sydney. As Amazon didn't list that here I thought it'd be worth mentioning.

Overall: A must-have for any Sophie fan. And as a bonus treat, there's an enhanced section that features Sophie's tour diary. Good stuff.

Go out and get this NOW and support great artists like Sophie B. Hawkins. August 24, 2006

Sophie is at her best live!

This album is a must-have for Sophie fans, or fans of good live music in general. Culled from shows in Seattle, Washington and Sydney, Australia, "Bad Kitty Board Mix" features something for everyone -- upbeat pop tunes, slow bluesy songs, a couple great covers (Nina Simone's "Feeling Good" and Bob Dylan's "I Want You"), and plenty of Sophie's quirky and animated banter with the band and the audience.

The sound of this album can only be described as raw. The shows came right off the soundboard -- there were no adjustments with vocals, no retouching. What you hear is what the audience heard.

The best part about this album are the added improvs in nearly every song. They take the songs to new heights, turning them into something fresh and brand new. Backed by a drummer and a keyboardist, Sophie plays an array of instruments herself from song to song -- keyboard, guitar, djembe drum, and banjo.

If you enjoy Sophie's music, "Bad Kitty Board Mix" will not disappoint. It's everything that makes Sophie a great musician and performer -- intense, energetic, passionate, spontaneous, and fun. August 22, 2006

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