Bonfire Madigan
...From The Burnpile (Kill Rock Stars)
By: Alex Steininger
Formerly of Tattletale (a female duo started when Madigan and her partner, Jen Wood, were in high school), Madigan has formed a new band, Bonfire Madigan, and is ready to turn the world onto her rock/folk/pop. Implementing an acoustic guitar next a cello (she plays both), the sound is like no other.With a voice so compelling, so strong, and full of emotion, Madigan is able to bring to life every word she sings. She is able to make you feel the music, make the music burn you, and let you become part of everything. As you sit and listen, you'll be taken back by the sheer power and magnitude that surrounds the music.
Adding a rough, tingling edge to the music through the use of her cello, she is able to contradict the soft acoustic feel. Of course, even when she goes soft, her voice is able to control the pace and put her in the exact position she wants to be in. If she feels a soft background is the right situation for her words, she'll make it soft. If not, though, you better look out because she'll rock you in an instant. And, not many people that I know of are able to rock harder than most heavy guitar bands through the use of just a cello and vocals.
Adding bass and drums, her band mates add even more color and life to the texture of the music. They help back her up when needed, or work cooperatively in pushing the limits of their music to the highest possible point -- before pushing the limits even further and coming out on top.
Sincere and honest, Madigan will always tell it how it is. She never beats around the bush, never wastes time with filler, or takes you on a wild chase for no apparent reason. Her music is rough and tumble, but has a sweet side that will also find a place in your heart. Capable of many different settings, she brings her whole world into her songs. I'll give this disc an A-.
