KATIE STELMANIS - Join Us

This debut offering on Blocks from Stelmanis is a defiant mixture of hot and cold, harsh and velvet textures. You're just as likely to be twirled by waltzing synths as you are to be pummelled by moments of pure noise. The album's two constants--rhythmic piano and an exceptional voice--are the rooted fulcrum upon which this tug-of-war balances. Stelmanis is a singer of considerable power and talent, but it's not so much any series of acrobatics that impresses. It is more how well suited her rich alto is to this fascinating collection of macabre art-pop. Another solid release from T.O.'s most eccentric label.