To That Land Uncharted4 Out Of 5 Stars
After revisiting her career through the four volumes of "Close Up" albums, Suzanne Vega cleaves close to that feel on her "Tales From The Realm Of The Queen of Pentangles." Which, despite its unwieldy title, feels like her earlier titles in that the folkish elements are more forward and her poetry is again enigmatic and enchanting.
"I don't know about happiness but virtue's overrated" she sweetly sings on "Laying On The Hands." To that end, Vega sings about the disparity between the rich and poor ("Fools Complaint"), being careful of what you wish for ("Don't Uncork What You Can't Contain," which samples 50 Cent of all people) and the excellent "Portrait of the Knight Of The Wands." The gentleness of "Portrait," which uses minimal effects under an acoustic guitar, recalls one of Vega's greatest moments, "The Queen and The Soldier." Once again, a soldier wearily ponders his mission all while obeying with a heavy heart. Great stuff.
Given that Vega's brand of Greenwich Village folk is enjoying a kind of vogue (think Mumford and Sons or better still, the Avett Brothers), "Tales From The Realm" could come off as elder stateswoman for those whippersnappers bringing the style back. There may not be anything of a revelation here, but her seven year break has served her well, and Suzanne Vega's "Tales From The Realm" is storytelling music at its best.
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