Made of Bricks [PA] (CD - 2007)

On her impressive debut, MADE OF BRICKS, British singer/multi-instrumentalist Kate Nash presents a confident and dynamic collection of pop songs. While both the young performer's sultry voice and fearless delivery immediately recall her contemporary Lily Allen (see the caustic "Dickhead," in particular), Nash often occupies territory closer to the thoughtful musings of Fiona Apple and Regina Spektor, as evinced on the swooning narrative "Birds" and the playful, piano-led ditty "Skeleton Song." The clear high point of BRICKS, however, is the vibrant, electronica-tinged "Foundations," a track that catapulted Nash to fame in the U.K., and fully showcases her biting wit and keen sense of melody. minimize