Nine vocal pieces that only occasionally incorporate full words. There are some instruments meandering in and out, but mostly this is the sound of women making music. Though I imagine there are those who might not agree with that last bit.

Kathy Kennedy Vowel Jams (self-released)

These aren't abstract pieces, precisely. They have structure and are clearly composed and rehearsed. There's some lovely subversive production work twisting the sounds into something even more unearthly, but largely this could be performed in your local space with ease.

Easy listening? Of course not. Kennedy's compositions are designed to provoke inquiry. I suppose those looking for a hook or two might not be particularly thrilled. Eh. They're not listening anyway. If you want a touchstone, some of Laurie Anderson's more conceptual recordings (the ones she has going in her Four Talks exhibit at the Hirschorn in DC immediately come to mind) are a place to start. But Kennedy has a more conversational style. These are songs of communion as well as confrontation. There's a warm edge to the flights of intellect.

I get it. This is, indeed, one of those albums some music critics love because it's far beyond the ordinary. It is weird, it is challenging and it isn't for casual listeners. But the style is inviting, and the ideas are accessible. Let the thoughts flow around and through you. Wallow in the experience. And then see if the world outside looks a wee bit different.

Jon Worley