(mj's) recording debut is a surprisingly driven, vividly textured collection of original material that commingles styles and transcends genre yet seemlessly celebrates the inspiration of its folk, rock, pop, counrty, blues, jazz and even classical roots. And it's easy to dance to.
melaniejane: Press
...a charismatic writer of her own songs as well as an elaborate interpreter of other works...
.... haunting countermelodies wrapped around a straight-ahead folk drive, peppered with tasteful effects ... many have fallen in love with her soulful, country pop-rock style....
Time for a triple treat I've seen this next performer as a solo artist open up for a daughter of rock royalty and one of the hardest rocking bands in the Midwest. In a group setting, she has performed classics alongside dozens of serious-looking people in formal wear. She has shared her talents with stars of alt-country, alt-rock and alt-whatever you've got. Melaniejane is a triple threat singer/songwriter, guitarist, keyboardist and cellist. She's also one of the nicest people in the business I've run across. I guess that makes her something like a six-time threat.
It hasn't taken long for the public to catch on to the talents of melaniejane, a local singer and songwriter who has caught the eye of audiences and fellow musicians...
"melaniejane writes arresting pop songs and has the guitar skills and plaintive voice to carry it off with charm, grace and gusto!"
2004 was a good year for music in Milwaukee, and, no matter what your tastes may be, there was a little of something for everyone.
Hey, I'm just like you, and I like it fast loud and greasy; but, for something on the softer side I can highly recommend the latest release from Milwaukee's sultriest songstress Melaniejane. The follow up to her 2002 release Flower is an introspective celebration of pure song writing entitled Billets Doux. The album is a bit of a departure from her most recent work that relies on her mastery of the cello, guitar and her own vocal prowess. From the opening track Somebody's Fool, the listener is haunted by strings and enchanting melodies. High points are achieved with the delicious melody on Over and Over and heartbreaking tenderness on Painted Smile. MJ assumed full control with this endeavor writing, recording, producing and playing all instruments. For an evening of ambience or a long drive, this release is a must have.
"...a passionate and gracejul voice with powerful acoustic guitar effects..."
...you will notice that her lyrics hit you right where you expect them to... there is no extra space. Her words always match right up with her melodies. Not many songwriters can do that. It takes a tremendous talent...
"melaniejane's up-tempo songs take on a jangly, almost folkish quality... (she) really shines with solw-motion near-dirges... favorable comparisons to The Cowboy Junkies aren't out of line..."
Blaine Schultz - The Paper
"... a confident performer and inspired songwriter......"
Listening to melaniejane's album, "flower," is nothing like hanging out with the 20-something singer, songwriter and musician. On the record, she bounces between bluesy-and-ballsy and folky-and-fiery, but in person, she is quiet and shy, a self-described "homebody" and so unassuming you want to whisper all of your secrets into her delicate ea