Washington D.C.-based Alice Despard has always worked hard to establish a sound that's apart from the music mainstream, and she does so again with Vessel. Despard goes back and forth throughout the album from electric to acoustic guitar, whether it's just her and the guitar or if she's being backed up by regular collaborators like Evan Pollack and Bobby Birdsong. Her songs are little more bluesish as opposed to some of her past efforts; less pop, more cool and more heartfelt. Despard's voice, although not as polished and perfect as others, resonates every emotion. It's so simple, yet so elegant.



