Those who only know Maple Bee as one of the award-winning Mediaeval Baebes will be in for a surprise upon listening to “Home”.  Even those familiar with her many musical talents may be a be impressed as well.  When I ordered this CD, I must admit that while I was definitely expecting something very good, I was not prepared for the sheer depth and versatility of “Home”.

“While You Were Sleeping” is absolute musical brilliance. I was blown away at the very first listen.  The guitar and vocals are both very edgy, recalling the  early ‘80s.    The song pulls you in like a dark undertow, very effectively accentuated by scything guitar hooks, an eerie drone in the background, and Maple Bee’s visceral “Huh Oh” in the chorus.   It is also quite danceable, but certainly not in any boring BPM-driven sort of way at all.  When you think that the apex of the song is reached, the closing vocals deliver an added punch that will leave the song running through your head, if you can resist the urge to replay it, that is.  “Quiet the Silent World” has a very ‘80s sort of sound, with parts reminding me of Big Country.  The song goes from a very upbeat vide, reminiscent of the Go-Go’s, down into a  more introspective avenue.  Layered vocals and sharp guitar add to the effect, especially at the end.  “Me and Rose” is slower and more reflective.  Cello and accordion provide the perfect compliment to the dreamy vocals.   In “Mirror”, Indie Rock meets the Sixties in a seamless blend.  The recorder and cello arrangements remind me vaguely of the Beatles,  Simon and Garfunkel and the like.   Much like Irish whiskey, the vocals are deceptively smooth, only to sink their hooks into you when you least expect.    The glockenspiel is a nice touch, with a bit of U-2ish guitar during the last part of the song.  Out of nowhere, the ending turns a bit disquieting.  “No Place” has vocals are very evocative, nearly like standing on a precipice, filled with longing tinged with desperation.    The piano is a poignant counterpart to the guitar, which has an almost renaissance flavor for a fleeting minute.  “Queen 23” is absolutely masterful.  The guitar and vocals resonate with a sense of something irrevocably lost,  and the percussion is very catchy and intriguing.  “I Want it All” begins languidly and breathless, like listening to a singer in a near empty cabaret at closing.  The current suddenly shifts, with a 60’s sort of riff, then morphs into ominous electronic effects with nearly gothic undertones.  Cello and echoed vocals heighten the dark ambiance at  the very end.   “Sweetness in Your Light” is lighter, optimistic, and has a wonderfully understated accordion and cello.   “Somebody Take Me Home” returns to a melancholic mood, heightened by the almost mechanical sound of mini-drums.  The cello rises with the chorus, weaving around the recorder and Maple Bee’s mournful vocals, which drop to a whisper.   “So Far from Lost” is very moving, with a feeling of something irrevocably lost.  “Nobody told me it was this hard…I’m finding out last….” All too soon, the CD ends with “This Face This Name”.  This song  is a bit harder, with brasher electronics and percussion.   Driving and   forceful, with hypnotic hooks that pull the listener into the shadows, the song ends with frantic, discordant vocals.

“Home” is very well produced, with arrangements that are phenomenal.   The packaging is very attractive, and lyrics are provided.  Accessible, yet with an edge, more will be discovered with each listen. The first time, play it loud.  Preferably driving down a deserted freeway at night.  Then play it softly, by candlelight.   Carefully crafted musical subtleties are the true hallmark of this CD.  “Home”  will appeal to musical aficionados of all persuasions who seek something exceptional.  I look forward to hearing more from Maple Bee.

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