Neko Case’s latest album features collaborations with multiple musicians for a powerful sound
If Neko Case was pressed to sum up her latest solo endeavor after seven long years, she would settle on “formidable.” Understandably so. Critics have grappled with defining the essence of Case’s music – “gothic Americana” is but one attempt – yet it generally proves to be a roller coaster ride of ever-evolving tones and rhythms, grounded by her evocative storytelling and powerful vocals.
On her latest album, “Neon Grey Midnight Green,” Case’s intention was clear: she wanted to assemble a diverse group of musicians to accompany her, and their collective prowess shines through. Organizing a 16-piece orchestra, in addition to 10 other credited musicians (herself included), culminates in a lineup of 26 musicians on the concluding track “Match-Lit” alone.
“I aimed to rekindle the essence of what it meant to have numerous musicians playing together,” Case revealed. “This doesn’t imply any discredit to synthesized string sections or horn ensembles because when used judiciously, they sound amazing. However, assembling a full-fledged orchestra can be prohibitively expensive nowadays. I truly wanted to seize this moment as I didn’t believe I’d get another chance.”
Although it might not constitute a literal wall of sound, the ebullient strings on “Wreck” transport her music to a jubilant dimension, while attentive listeners might discern the subtle notes of the harp interwoven within.
Case found her hands full with several projects during her absence from the limelight. The universal pandemic proved disruptive for all, but the Vermont-based artist has also kept busy recording and touring alongside her bandmates in The New Pornographers. She took on the task of composing the music for an upcoming stage production of “Thelma & Louise.” Furthermore, she penned a memoir titled “The Harder I Fight the More I Love You,” which hit the shelves earlier this year.
Detailing an arduous upbringing predominantly in the Pacific Northwest, Case recounts a tumultuous childhood, reared by parents who brought her into the world as teenagers, ill-equipped and apathetic to the task of parenting. At one point, she was led to believe her mother had passed away, only for her to resurface without explanation a year and a half later.
By her teenage years, Case found herself essentially alone, where music emerged as her salvation, her guiding light shining through the haze of darkness.