Adam Green & Binki Shapiro
- By Philip Goodfellow -
- Jan 22, 2013
Binki Shapiro of Little Joy fame and Adam Green of Moldy Peaches and, well, Adam Green fame have been friends for several years now, and the idea of a collaboration is one that Green apparently had some time ago. The pair formed a creative bond whilst Green was supporting Little Joy on their tour of Brazil and the pair working together on an album is something Shapiro agreed to as soon as Green mentioned it to her. The fruits of this creative friendship are now upon us, and the familiarity and comfort that the pair clearly feel with each other makes it's presence felt on the record.
Interviewed: Adam Green & Binki Shapiro
There's a decidedly classic feel to this album, something that has been present in Green's sound for some time but which has been reinvented here, for two reasons in particular. The first is the involvement of Ms. Shapiro; far from being an album merely 'featuring' the lovely songstrel, this is very much a collaboration, her gentle yet knowing vocal proving the perfect accompaniment to the beautifully crafted music.
The second is the lyrics. It would be churlish to suggest that Adam Green has not proven to be a talented lyricist in the past, but there's a distinct change of tack for this album; Shapiro herself recently came up with the perfect way of summing up this change by stating that Green had 'tucked his sack back for this one'.
The process of considering his female collaborator when writing, rather than just himself, has lent Green's lyrics a more accessible, dare it be said mature feel, something which Shapiro has more than matched with her contribution. Add to that the considerable talents of producer Noah Georgeson, with whom both Green and Shapiro had worked previously, and the result is a collection of fantastically warm and charming pop songs that sit perfectly alongside each other to form a truly accomplished album.
Intimate yet world-wise, classic yet fresh, this is an absolute gem of an album from two talented singer songwriters who have successfully (and thankfully) realised the potential in collaborating with each other. Here's hoping there'll be more to come.
8/10
This guest blog complies to Virgin.com terms & conditions.
