Review Summary: A hugely talented but almost unknown female band comes out of nowhere and records an unexpected impressive debut.
It is not uncommon for a band with true talent to go unnoticed or be disdained. Girl In A Coma (GIAC) is one of those sad cases, and more so, because their music is not complex, obscure or pretentious. Quite the opposite: this female trio from Texas is capable of fine songwriting, decent musicianship, have a phenomenal singer, and have great quantities of energy and passion, all in the context of accessible, highly enjoyable music. Can you really ask for more?
Labeled a punk band, they could just as easily be labelled an alternative or pop band. GIAC have an undeniable talent for writing a good, catchy song, addictive as it is full of attitude and soul. Nothing beats a good melody, and these girls can write one. The album, if somewhat long, is charming from beginning to end. From the moment opener "Clumsy Sky" starts, you are compelled to keep listening, and you are astonished of the talent displayed throughout the twelve following songs. They go from a straight punk piece like "Say", to an splendid ballad like "Their Cell", to something in-between, and they do everything well.
Both Before I'm Gone has that great virtue of revealing its goodness through repeated listens; songs you thought were the weakest prove you wrong down the road. This can be due in no small part to its 60 minutes and the similar tone punk-ish music can have, but it is not long before you realize you are in presence of an outstanding work. The album is full of memorable, clever, soulful, catchy, infectious, hooking and well-written and executed songs: music is really engaging, without being shallow or disposable.
The music is apparently written by all three members, and while certainly songwriting is key, it is singer and guitarist Nina DÃ*az undoubtedly the secret weapon to their success: possessing a beautiful, expressive, powerful voice, paired with a strong personality and unique rendition of every song, she propels album to the heights. The rest of the band - Nina's sister and drummer Phanie DÃ*az and bassist Jenn Alva - do a decent job with their instruments: they need no more. A time comes when you forget you are listening to three girls playing; the musicianship is that tight.
Released in 2007, it is a wonder how Girl In A Coma have not gotten wider recognition.
Both Before I'm Gone is truly a brilliant and refreshing debut album that never disappoints. Women, indeed, can rightly make exciting music.
4.2/5
