Another long time IPO favorite and Brooklynite, Marykate O’Neil releases her new EP “mkULTRA” today. Marykate accurately described this as an “after-the-party” album, with introspective songs that feel very personal. Not so much a happy pop album, but it does have strong melodies and songwriting. “Green Street” describes a moment after a relationship has failed, and the wish for friendship. It’s a good song that evokes Carole King and Aimee Mann and has a nice driving chorus. “Map” has an interesting percussive treatment along with a great vocal performance. “Trouble” is a creepy ballad with a ghostly multi-track “even I knew… trouble” about the substance abuse that builds to a loud guitar crescendo. Included is a cover of Randy Newman’s “Living Without You” and Jill Sobule’s “Happy.” A good follow up to 2006’s critically acclaimed 1-800-Bankrupt.
Marykate’s web site | CD Baby | Amazon