I've seen more than one review of Jenny Lewis and her day job band Rilo Kiley that has bluntly stated that she is overrated. I guess that's overrated like sex, caffeine or winning the lottery. What do people want from music? This single, culled from Jenny Lewis And The Watson Twins' LP Rabbit Fur Coat is the perfect riposte to the doubters.

Rise Up With Fists is a biting, insightful lyric that tackles religious duplicity, ageing and drunken self-destruction all wrapped up in a pretty silver bow. The music is a cocktail of '70s Nashville swoon and a dash of heart melting harmonies stirred together with a knowing indie guitar twist. Lewis' vocals are like the warm rush of summer, the Watson Twins back the cool air of dusk. This is sassy, sultry and playful. Before you even notice, Jenny's stuck her fingers in your back pocket and stolen your wallet along with your heart.

The second track Paradise - I am loath to call it a B-side - is a slow burning country lament; a sliced white dream of escape from poverty and debt. That a former child actress can write so dramatically shouldn't be a great surprise; that she can be this effortlessly cool and sharp is a more of a revelation. How much talent is one women allowed? Listen out for this on the radio - when you hear it, fall helplessly in love and treat yourself to the album. Your new love affair starts here.

share:  Facebook | Digg | del.icio.us | more

Mercury Prize 2009 nominees