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THE REVIEW
We all know that music is divided into various types: rock, pop, funky, jazz, metal, folk, electronic, and all the various nuances. Well, I now want to break a lance in favor of the "various nuances," precisely by talking about this album.
Folk-Industrial. To some, this kind of music genre may seem completely unknown, but that's how "99.9 F°" has been labeled (and I also feel inclined to consider it), which I define as Suzanne Vega's second masterpiece, one of the best foreign singers of the last 20 years.
Dated 1992, this fourth studio work shows that our artist, armed with an acoustic guitar, is intent on experimenting. And she succeeds. Despite being too short (just over 35 minutes), this album shines nonetheless with an indescribable intensity.
It deviates from "Solitude Standing" in terms of sound, but it still manages to be sweet and energetic at the same time. You can tell that Vega's style is always hers.
Metallic, distorted sounds, on the dark side ("Blood Makes Noise" (almost a tongue twister), the title track, "Fat Man & Dancing Girl", "As a Child", "(If You Were) In My Movie"), mythological inspirations ("Rock In This Pocket (David's Song)", based on the battle between David and Goliath), acoustic and even dramatic ballads ("Blood Sings", "Bad Wisdom", "Song of Sand", "Private Goes Public", present only in the European version of the album), a great desire for rock ("When Heroes Go Down") and above all a true MASTERPIECE: "In Liverpool", perhaps the best-known song from the album, one of Suzanne Vega's signature songs in my opinion... a song that still gives chills today for its perfection.
With the following albums, she will surely go somewhat subdued compared to the past (but I note that I have never heard the latest "Beauty & Crime," yet I trust those who say it's beautiful), but this work is a gem of foreign female music.
Will such albums be released again in the years to come? Who knows... anything is possible!
Highly recommended album.
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Summary by Bot
Suzanne Vega’s 1992 album 99.9F° is an innovative blend of folk and industrial sounds, showcasing her evolution as an artist. Despite its brief length, it delivers intense, dark, and energetic music. Highlights include the iconic track 'In Liverpool' and experiments with metallic, distorted tones. The album stands as a highly recommended gem in female folk music.Tracklist
Suzanne Vega
Suzanne Vega is an American singer-songwriter associated with literate, narrative songwriting and a restrained, intimate vocal style. She rose to prominence in the 1980s with albums such as her self-titled debut and Solitude Standing, later experimenting with electronic and eclectic arrangements in the 1990s, and continuing with acclaimed later releases.12 Reviews
