Kristie Stremel - "The Detour EP" (self-produced)

Album review by Danny Alexander

Exit 159's one full-length album came close to offering what that band did best, but it only really took off during the second half's simpler rockers like "Something To Do" or "Marry Me." The first half of the album--with some of lead singer Kristie Stremel's best-crafted songs ("I Like You," "Communication") and her most personal moments ("Okay," "In the Middle")-fell a little flat with material that could be absolutely heartwrenching live.

Following the break-up of that band, Stremel has made a new 6-song Ep that struggles to find the right fit for her increasingly-ambitious songwriting. She does this by avoiding a fixed band approach altogether, simply applying minimal instrumentation when it seems suitable. The opener, "What Gives," is a remake of one of the songs from Exit 159's first release, the Ep Lost on Earth, and it sets the tone for this disc. While the original "What Gives" used the sonic punch of a 3 piece to land a sucker punch on God's kisser, the new version is more reflective, too tired and resigned to rant and rave anymore. The delicate, "Easiest Thing," awakens from this despair with a fresh appreciation for day-to-day struggles, but then "Strong" suggests that, whatever peace has been found, much larger forces are determined to knock this weary fighter off of her feet.

Musically, "Strong" is something of a turning point on this Ep. While the first two cuts sound like slight modifications of songs originally performed with Exit, "Strong"--its deep rhythmic roll topped off by the crackle of foam in sand--has a spare ambition reminiscent of a Gene Pitney record. "White Trash Ballad" sparkles with a newfound assurance matched by guitarist Chris Meck's perfectly understated leads. "Claire's Song" is an even more delicate collaboration between Stremel's voice and Meck's guitar. This fragile clarity suits the focus on simple joys that get lost in the midst of daily anxiety and obsession. "Jump With You" brings it all down to Stremel accompanying herself on guitar, testifying to her own insecurity and uncertainty but also to her willingness to take chances. It's an eloquent ending place for an album about having everything you thought was important stripped away and finding a glimmer of what really matters in the process.

--Danny Alexander