Album of the week- Loene Carmen: "It Walks Like Love"

A tricky one, this.
As opposed to the vast bulk of the noise that passes through my (aching, ringing) ears, this solo-with-friends album by Sydney-based singer/songwriter/actress/everything Loene Carmen is quietly forceful in a way unlike anything else I can recall hearing lately. That doesn't mean it's all shy and retiring, though. There's a a fair dose of open lovin', mingled with some sad and bitter honesty on offer here. The sound also moves across a wide range, from dusty country to howling feedback. But nothing is ever confusing- in fact, it's all pretty amazing.