Alanis Morissette

Artist : Alanis Morissette

Album : So-Called Chaos (Warner Music Indonesia)

Be they angry, meditative or self-deprecating, the works of Alanis Morissette are always interesting to absorb, even when it all gets pretty self-indulgent and demanding, like 2002's Under Rug Swept.

It is difficult, and somehow unnecessary, to repeat the groundbreaking Jagged Little Pill. But in her three later albums, Morissette still appeals as an eloquent singer, and a good songwriter, especially in revealing the stages and complexity of human beings and as a woman.

Less self indulgent than the previous record, she offers guidelines to living a screwed up life, as raw guitar and drum loops kicks off Eight Easy Steps.

Doth I Protest Too Much is a sad track where Morissette tries hard to convince herself that she is secure, not needy and thus incapable of jealousy as a partner. This Grudge is a touching number as she wants to make peace with accumulated excess baggage.

India still excites her as the sitar accentuates Knees of My Bees and So-Called Chaos, among others.

And through to the last track, "I can be the ass***, the wisest woman and the kindest soul" (Everything), the album confirms that Morissette remains one of the most important contemporary singer/ songwriter. -- Hera Diani