Nine Objects of Desire

Album overview

Nine Objects of Desire is a collaborative album by Suzanne Vega and the band DNA, released in 1990 under the A&M Records label. This album is notable for its fusion of Vega's folk-pop sensibilities with DNA's avant-garde, experimental sound, resulting in a unique blend that stands out in the 1990s music landscape. The album features a total of 11 tracks, including notable singles such as "In the Eye," "Blood Makes Noise," and "Tired of Sleeping." The production was primarily helmed by the band's members and Vega, showcasing a blend of electronic influences and traditional instrumentation. The recording sessions took place in New York City, where both Vega and DNA members drew inspiration from the vibrant art and music scene of the time. The collaboration was significant as it marked a deviation from Vega's earlier work, exploring more eclectic soundscapes and lyrical themes. The album's lyrics tackle subjects ranging from personal introspection to societal commentary, maintaining Vega's signature poetic style while being enhanced by DNA's experimental approach. Culturally, Nine Objects of Desire reflects a transitional period in music, where the boundaries between genres were increasingly blurred. This album not only showcases the evolution of Suzanne Vega as an artist but also highlights DNA's innovative contributions to the music industry, making it a noteworthy entry in both their discographies.

Review

Nine Objects of Desire is a fascinating exploration of sound and lyrical depth. The album bravely ventures into the realm of experimental music while retaining the storytelling prowess that has always been a hallmark of Suzanne Vega's work. Tracks like "In the Eye" and "Blood Makes Noise" exemplify Vega's knack for weaving intricate narratives with a haunting quality, amplified by DNA's pulsating rhythms and layered instrumentation. The sonic landscape of the album is lush and diverse, blending electronic beats with Vega's rich, melodic voice. This juxtaposition creates an engaging listening experience that challenges traditional genre classifications. While some tracks may feel disjointed due to their experimental nature, they ultimately contribute to the album's overarching theme of exploration and evolution. Lyrically, Vega remains introspective, presenting a candid look at her thoughts and emotions, enhanced by the innovative production techniques employed by DNA. Overall, Nine Objects of Desire stands as a testament to both artists' willingness to push boundaries and evolve their sound, making it a compelling listen for fans of both Vega and avant-garde music.

Highlights

• Innovative blend of folk-pop and experimental sounds.
• Strong lyrical themes with emotional depth.
• Engaging production that showcases both artists’ strengths.

Weak points

• Some tracks may feel disjointed or overly experimental for mainstream audiences.
• Not all songs achieve the same level of impact, some may feel underdeveloped.
• Limited commercial success compared to Vega's earlier works, which may affect its recognition.

Overall evaluation

Nine Objects of Desire showcases an exciting evolution in Suzanne Vega's music, blending her poetic lyricism with DNA's avant-garde style. While it may not resonate with all listeners, it stands as a significant work that highlights the creativity and willingness to experiment in the early '90s music scene. Personal rating: 7/10 ```