Scream of Consciousness

Album Review

Nova Scotian singer/songwriter Colleen Coadic focuses on simplicity on this 12-song disc. The album begins with "Wonder Years," an upbeat and partially acoustic track, with Coadic's feisty vocals dancing over simple and direct instrumentation. The music is often hypnotic and somber in the album's first half, especially on the third track, "Hypnotic." The fact that the album is possibly overly produced might hide the richness of some of the songs. Her versatility as a vocalist is impressive, but the best songs showcase her raw and passionate style. Relaxed songs like "My Adoring Glance," "I'm Not Feeling Real," and the title track add a graceful touch to the otherwise energetic album. The seventh track, "Medicority," is the poppiest of the collection. The disc ends with the tender "Mother Me" and the yearning-filled "Ripple." Bassist Sean Cobb also produced Scream of Conciousness. Drummer Kris Rosentrater performs admirably and guest guitarist Bart Boggan performs on many of the songs. The album was recorded at Cobb's The Next Twelve Recording Studio in Anchorage, AK. On the strength of this album, Coadic toured with Ani Difranco. Badoo Toonz released the disc in 1999.