She's Busy

June 20 - June 27, 1 9 9 6
[Off the Record]

[line image]

*** She's Busy

DIFFERENT THIS TIME

(Selisa)

Listen to Different This Time just once and it'll scream for an Indigo Girls comparison -- two women singing harmony to primarily acoustic accompaniment. After a few more spins, however, a distinctive sound emerges in the voices of sisters Selena and Lisa Wilson. They've been singing together since they were young, and it shows in the intimacies of their close harmonies. They are joined on vocals and guitar by singer/songwriter Brett Brumby on some songs, including a lackluster cover of the Beatles' "Dear Prudence."

Those exquisite harmonies are the group's trademark. She's Busy do not rely on fancy musical tricks to carry their songs. The title track displays their vocal virtues at their best; "Walls," with its simple three-part harmony sung a cappella and in unison, is a close second. A tendency toward trite lyrics is overcome by strong rhythms and unexpected touches, like the saxophone on "Make Up Your Mind." Yes, it's possible to overlook the lyrics and just enjoy the beauty of the album. But as She's Busy sing on "All Worthwhile," "It's all been said before . . . "

-- Jen Pieters