Critics can sometimes get lazy in their reviewing, and ignore lesser known artists in favor of today's latest, greatest major label release. But every so often, an artist like Amanda Green comes along and slaps us in the face, to reminds us *why* such prejudices aren't completely justified.
On her debut album, Junk And Stuff, Green has put together a stellar collection of fourteen tracks which will call to mind DiFranco, Tori Amos, Joan Osborne, Kate Bush and the upper echelon of alternative female performers.
The classically trained pianist puts that talent to use on the tender ballad "Like I Do" (think Tori's "Silent All These Years" coupled with Joan Osborne's vocals) and the poignant, inquisitive "Why Do I Have To Die?", while the Liz Phair-esque guitar rockers "Make It Right" and "I Stay Home" shine the spotlight on the harder side of this Miami native.
Green's label, Y&T is best known for being the launching ground for the group For Squirrels. And even though Junk And Stuff was released in 1996, it stands head and shoulders over many of the better known alternative albums released this year.
Junk And Stuff is one release that makes a critic remember that not all the good talent gets claimed by the major labels. For more information on this release, contact Y&T Music at 1755 NE 149 Street, Miami, FL 33181.
