Billie Myers

Vertigo

Women free to express their musical feelings produce scores of mediocrity – although not as consistently as men – and a modicom of greatness. Of the songstresses with vision and voices, Billie Myers achieves some of the most satisfying results on Vertigo [Universal, 2000. 11; 55:25].

Eclectic arrangements reflect influences more diverse than her British-Jamaican background, as Billie spins intricate lyrical images against melodies powerful enough to reinforce her words.

Her Growing, Pains debut was very promising. Vertigo fulfils the promise. On it, Myers displays a greater command of her craft in a thoroughly enjoyable set, on which she co-wrote all the songs, many with producer David Tyson [Amanda Marshall].

Billie keeps her tongue in cheek more than many far less talented performers, quipping:
...told me I'm a loser,
I guess that must be true
Why else would I be here with you?

The songs wear well, with tunes so lively, desperation sounds celebratory until the lyrics kick in, as on "Without My Consent," another mesmorising piece. The nifty "Should I call you Jesus?" has a prelude and a coda, which impressed me.

Billie's verses verge on poetic:
Pouring diamond clouds and cobwebs
Reign the sky
In spite of that I'll stay dry
I'll keep hanging on your threads

The album is energetic, with an acoustic, percussive feel. A technically beautiful recording, it's well worth owning at least one copy.