Background
PJ Harvey is an English musician, singer-songwriter, writer, poet, and composer. With new album The Hope VI Demolition Project, Harvey has now released nine LPs. Harvey wrote the songs during her travels to Kosovo, Afghanistan, and Washington D.C. with photographer/filmmaker Seamus Murphy between 2011 and 2014.

Strengths
A concept album of sorts about the HOPE VI housing projects in the USA. Even the recordings were opened to the public as an art installation. From such arty intent, thankfully, there is a body of artistic work that stretches the heart and mind. The songs come from an open source, where melodies channel a working ethic and the lyrics are cynical. Instrumentally, the music is highly textured and a balm to the ears from synthetic sounds.

Highlights
“The Community of Hope”, “The Ministry of Defence”, “Chain of Keys”, “Orange Monkey”.

Sounds Like
Patti Smith, Tori Amos, Ani DiFranco, Bob Dylan & Chrissie Hynde.

Bottom Line
There is a palpable determination in PJ Harvey’s songwriting to deliver message-driven songs that do not simply rely on topical lyrics but also on a mercurial sound that transcends form and genre.

Information
Official Site: http://pjharvey.net/

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