Wry Pop and Acoustic -- Ani DiFranco meets Rosanne Cash with the Poi Dog Pondering (literally) Horn Section. Great songwriting! "WXRT Top 5"

14 MP3 Songs
POP: Folky Pop, ROCK: 90's Rock



Details:
The City of Big Shoulders seems an appropriate breeding ground for singer/songwriter Ellen Rosner. Born and raised in Chicago, her music, lyrics, and presentation radiate that direct, firm handshake, what-you-see-is-what-you-get attitude that keeps Midwesterners' feet on the ground and informs their keen sense of detecting bull. Look a little deeper and you'll also find the heart of gold and unpostured sincerity that are hallmark traits of the heartland.

What sets Ellen Rosner apart from traditional confessional songwriters is a pervading sense of self awareness that lets her stand outside herself long enough to see the humor. Then there's that voice, which can either grab you by the jugular or soothe you into submission, depending upon her intent. Finally, there's the music, which ranges from bombastic grooves, to soulful, punchy workouts, or sparse acoustic textures.

Amid all of this, Rosner holds on to that Midwestern disposition by keeping her talents in perspective. She's quick to point out that in the realm of pop music, "There are only eight notes to play with. Come on, everything's been done." And yet she sees the value in her unique expression as well. As she puts it, "Nobody else is going to be Ellen." In that light, Ellen Rosner's Malcontent is our good fortune.