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Anna Kramer & the Lost CauseThe Rustic Contemporary Sounds of Anna Kramer & the Lost Cause(International Hits) US release date: 22 January 2008 UK release date: Available as import by Aarik DanielsenThe Atlanta based Anna Kramer’s debut is a refreshing, often rambunctious rave-up fashioned in the spirit of mid-late ‘60s rock. Kramer and her band, The Lost Cause, have an ear for the sound of rebellion and play the part well of empowered, enlightened cultural insurgents. The band’s work finds its shape and being in the elements of Brit-influenced guitar rock stomps and old school country western shuffles (the latter occasionally resemble the recent solo work of Jenny Lewis), the best of which find Kramer asserting herself in the face of uncooperative, inconsiderate lovers (see “You Think You Know Me"). Other highlights include “Death Comes Knocking at My Door” and “Man in Love,” which calls the late June Carter Cash to mind. There are a few moments of ambition that don’t quite land; the extended outros on “Plastic Beads” and “When You See Him” are overreaching as is the Spanish-flavored “Yo Quiero Estar”. Despite these few missteps, Kramer’s assured vocals with her band’s capable backing and collective spunk make the album a breath of fresh air.
— 21 January 2008
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