Rebecca Pronsky - Known Objects (2016)

After extensive touring behind 2013’s release “Only Daughter” (which made The Telegraph’s Top 10 Country Albums of 2013 list), Rebecca Pronsky and her longtime producer & guitarist Rich Bennett took some time off from the road to open a recording studio in their hometown of Brooklyn, NY.

“Known Objects” was originally conceived as a duo album, but once the recording studio was up and running, the environment proved too tempting to stop at just voice and guitars. With so many local musicians — many of them long-time friends — coming in to work on recording projects, Bennett couldn’t resist asking them to stick around and try out a part here and there on Pronsky’s new songs. Surrounded by an ever-growing flock of talented special guests, and no strict schedule or deadlines, Pronsky and Bennett were able to take their time with “Known Objects.” Pronsky’s songwriting and vocal agility shine as never before and Bennett’s production and arranging skills flourish.

An expansive, almost existential, feeling pervades “Known Objects”. “Shadow” and “Gondwanaland” both draw inspiration from readings on the big bang and dark matter. “Bag of Bones” is a cautionary tale about artistic self-doubt. “A.E.” brings a sense of wonder and sadness to newly published revelations in the Amelia Earhart story. The album’s only cover is an adventurous interpretation of “Heatwave” by 1980s Scottish pop pioneers The Blue Nile, propelled by ethereal plucked piano strings. Listeners of the record are treated to intricate cello arrangements performed by NYC mainstay Serena Jost, lush 4-part harmonies sung by Lucy Wainwright Roche, Greta Gertler, Emily Hurst (Las Rubias Del Norte), and Deidre Struck (Lascivious Biddies), and delicate, atmospheric textures played by eminent jazz guitarist Ben Monder, who last recorded with David Bowie on “Blackstar.”