Kimya Dawson

Free of polished production and conventional lyricism, Kimya Dawson is raw yet tender, gripping yet childlike. Previously only available from Dawson herself, Knock-Knock Who? is another home recording that rightfully receives a proper release. Here, the Moldy Peach establishes herself as an eccentric songwriter, focusing on some of her most lo-fi creations. With her offbeat approach, Dawson's not quite an outsider, but with lyrics such as "it's your birthday, drink your pee, take off your shirt day" or "remember the time we saw Kenny G? He wanted to hump you that's what he told me," she borders on one. Sometimes the found-sounds get irritating or in the way, like the television background on "Great Crap." For other moments, such as "For Boxer," she's weeping or close to an emotional breakdown. On the anti-romantic "So Nice So Smart," she whispers "you're such a good friend I have to break your heart/I'll tell you that I love you then I'll tear your world apart." Tragic. ~ Kenyon Hopkin, All Music Guide