Martha Wainwright – I Know You’re Married But I’ve Got Feelings Too

• 12th May 2008

It’s been three years since Martha Wainwright’s critically acclaimed debut album.’I Know You’re Married But I Have Feelings Too’, won’t leave fans disappointed and definatley has plenty to attract to new ones. Angst, torment, unrequited love, and self pity are prevalent themes for Martha, which suits her well. Although don’t think it’s all she’s good at as this album proves.

This album must have been more like a social experiment for Martha as list of people close to her that appear on the album is plentiful. Produced by her new husband, Brad Albetta and collaborations including Rufus, their mother, auntie and cousin are littered throughout the tracks.

Opening track ‘Bleeding All Over You’ is a folky twee tale of unrequited love that we can all relate to. A combination of dispair and hope in her voice haunts you. ‘You Cheated Me’ has hints of 80’s rock (the good stuff) to it and is a definite radio hit in the making. ‘In The Middle Of The Night’ is almost gothic and draws comparison with PJ Harvey as she practiacally cries through the chorus with desperation before spitting out the verses. She puts aside her anger and shame for ‘The George Song’ for the sweet and innocent ditty, that will have you tapping your toes in no time.

Perhaps for light relief the classic ‘See Emily Play’ by Pink Floyd is given a childlike reworking that is bright and touching at the same time. Though it is on ‘Niger River’ that her majestic voice is set beautifully aginst the acoustic guitar(dedicated to her new husband) and leaves you with no doubt that perhaps it’s Rufus that will be spending some time in the shaddows.