Related Items
Paul Baribeau
Latest release: "Unbearable" (No Idea/Plan-It-X)
Who: Critics who review Paul Baribeau's albums often devote the first few sentences to disparaging descriptions of the singer's voice (untrained), guitar playing (ditto) and beard (bushy), before admitting that, as frequent collaborator Kimya Dawsom noted, he’s "one of the greatest songwriters ever.” Baribeau, who shares Dawson’s penchant for biting lyrics and lo-fi production value, released his third album, "Unbearable," in spring of 2010.
What they’re saying: "Combining a wise, folky sound with youthful and introspective lyrics, Paul's songwriting style is deep, candid, and complex without using big words, crazy chord structures, and condescending attitudes." – Sputnik Music
What we’re saying: "Unbearable" is a remarkable step forward for Baribeau. His voice on tracks like album opener "If I Knew" is plaintive—melodic, even—and he might have gone through fewer guitar strings this time around. As always, the lyrics are downright elegiac; it's Baribeau’s talent for writing affecting songs without being mawkish that gives most of his music that trademark emotional punch to the gut. Clever asides like "Poor girls' hearts are always broke" are just the window dressing. – Lucy Mueller
Official website: http://www.myspace.com/paulbaribeau
