Joanna McMeikan - News, Reviews, Performances



CLICK HERE TO RETURN TO NEWS PAGE CLICK HERE TO RETURN TO "BREAKING THE HABIT" PAGE "Oxford educated and classically trained, McMeikan brings a special artistry and earnest intelligence to the pop arena with her polished full-length CD. “Again” introduces a breathy spot-on vocalist who’s at one with her original material. “Rainbow” and its 'cello arrangement offer a more alternative edge, while “Today” is a moody piano/vocal outing somewhat reminiscent of Kate Bush. A serious artist [with a] vision…” "Music Connection" review "It can take a lot these days for artists to get noticed- either the right person at the right time or a sound that no one has captured before. Joanna's music, at first listen, confirms that it's plenty strong for the radio; but with a deeper listen, it demonstrates how it exceeds the mainstream mold of female piano pop. With a voice like hers - clear, resonant, right on the mark - and with a knack for taking pop into territory more adventurous, more potentially dangerous - like a jungle with freaky creatures you've never seen and trees with strange adhesions - Joanna gives your imagination and wilder self a ride while appealing to your day-to-day side that wants solid, pleasing, satisfying groove. Take a bite out of this juicy album." cd baby review "Rarely is a solo debut CD released, whether by an independent artist or an artist signed to a major label, that sounds as though it could have easily been penned by a seasoned veteran. Enter "Breaking the Habit" by singer/songwriter Joanna McMeikan, which proves that, while rare, it is possible. From start to finish "Breaking the Habit" delivers one exceptional track after another and quite honestly there is never once a dull moment. Joanna's voice is truly stunning and her ability to transition from powerful and energetic one moment to light and angelic the next is awe-inspiring. Joanna not only puts her exceptional voice on display though, she also proves her ability as a songwriter and lyricist having written or co-written the music for all 11 tracks as well as writing all the lyrics. There were a few a tracks which really stood out to me: First the dramatic and emotional January Snow. Joanna's voice literally gave me chills which seems fitting considering the lyrics "And I must be broken / So no words are spoken / One more heart is frozen / In this January Snow". Joanna not only shows off her range as a vocalist but also as a pianist, delivering haunting yet passionate melodies you won't soon forget. Another standout is Rainbow... Past Unconditional is perhaps my favorite track on the CD, with it's rhythmical spoken verses accented by harmonized phrases giving way to an enthusiastic chorus sitting atop an unforgettable driving brass arrangement and room shaking beat, which almost has a big band vibe. As far as I'm concerned Past Unconditional has "hit" written all over it. It's infectious - I found myself repeating the track several times before moving on to the next. Regardless of the style or mood of each song, Joanna remains in complete control of her voice, never once wavering. Add to that melodies that are easy to fall in love with and a definite replay factor, as you'll find yourself hitting the repeat button of your CD player on more than one occasion. I can't imagine it will be long before Joanna McMeikan becomes a very recognizable name to music lovers all over the world. I know it's a name I'm not going to forget after being fortunate enough to review this CD." Ventana - Females in Music, www.ventana.cjb.net "Loreena McKennitt, Fiona Apple and Natalie Merchant combined their vocal talents to turn out this gem. Definitely worth a listen." MBB Internet Radio " This very impressive release showcases the incredible singing and songwriting of Joanna McMeikan. Although there is a slight resemblance to Natalie Merchant in terms of vocal style, Joanna cites the songwriting ability of Kate Bush and Joni Mitchell as deeply influential sources, but her literary background certainly has helped her songwriting. Her songs also bring about the fragility and beauty of Tori Amos and the cracked mirror psychology of Suzanne Vega. Overall, "Breaking the Habit" is well produced and loaded with melody driven songs, sophisticated arrangements, and truly poignant lyrics. The opening track, “Again,” sets the pace for the entire CD, as the remaining songs find their own strengths along the corridors and shadowy corners. Without question, this is a consistently excellent work from a truly talented artist that deserves wider attention.." www.buzzcommunicationsmusic.com "I love your cd! I think you have a powerful and beautiful voice and the songs are strong and unique. Great job on the production too! Great things are coming for you." John Frizzell, composer ("Alien Resurrection", "Ghost Ship") "Spellbinding, artistically-driven pop-rock - brings to mind such artists as Tori Amos, Natalie Merchant, Loreena McKennitt, Fiona Apple, Bjork... Music is creative and extremely polished, while vocals are top-notch." Robert Thompson, Kings of A&R, www.kingsofar.com "“…A stellar showcase of radio friendly, commercially viable songs which consistently deliver, musically, vocally, lyrically, and artistically on the highest levels. With a smorgasborg of diverse and well produced tracks, Joanna offers profound insight and poetic reflections on topics that cover the full spectrum of the love experience... Her writing is keen, precise, and deliberate. She has a knack for directing your focus while allowing you to make your own interpretations and draw your own conclusions. She does it with force. She does it with finesse. She does it with humor as displayed in what should be the radio single, "Rainbow," which is a song about using prozac or relying on prozac as "a chemical umbrella to protect her from the rain so she doesn't have to feel." If this song were in a packet it would read: "Instant radio hit - just add airplay." When the music industry catches this rising star, adult music lovers will become addicted to Joanna McMeikan and find listening to her songs to be a hard habit to break. Advice: The world is waiting to embrace and celebrate your talents. You just have to find a way to let them know that you exist.” Gian Fiero, www.musesmuse.com "Ms McMeikan clearly has the talent to become one of the most prominent female vocalists of the decade. Even at this point in her career, her voice is polished to a brilliant finish. It has the ability to go from a dramatic whisper to an anguished scream, jump two octaves up the scale and back down again, without ever making a misstep. It's a voice with no apparent intrinsic limitations whatsoever." World of Gigs "Joanna McMeikan is blessed with a voice that is both earthy and ethereal as if she's a force of nature. She manages to sound sensual and spiritual at the same time, which gives her music a layered sensibility. She creates aural landscapes replete with atmospheres that are somehow cinematic in scope. For example, her vocals bring to mind the barren sparseness of winter when she sings of "January Snow," even when listening on a sunny, Spring day. One visualizes the bright white scenery, bitter cold air, and drab gray skies through McMeikan's musical evocation." Steve Horowitz, Bitchin' Entertainment "Joanna McMeikan is certainly a force to be reckoned with. She has strong vocals, the kind that grab your heart and soul - but be prepared for the chill to the bone. These are the most beautiful and extremely professional vocals I have ever heard. The lyrics are very well written. The instruments are excellent - precise, crisp, clear and in all the right places. Even though I have not personally been privileged to witness Joanna McMeikan live, just from “Breaking the Habit” I would recommend the listener to seek her out and take in a performance. Joanna will totally blow you away with her dynamic vocal technique, a voice that is strong and sexy without being overbearing. Simply put, it’s great music… Joanna McMeikan is definitely bound for the big time and in my opinion her fame and fortune will come from material like “Past Unconditional” - very goooood! This little tune could easily send Madonna into retirement!... Another track to watch out for is “Lover of Mine” which shows her diversity as an exploding singer, and her expertise in musicianship and songwriting." Mary Rudy, Muzik Reviewz US artiste Joanna McMeikan opens her offering with "Again", a sublime piece of work that is both powerful and emotional. Heartfelt vocals and a unique musical ability... A wonderful track and fully recommended... "January Snow", a piano-led offering, again shows off Miss McMeikan’s crisp vocals; whereas "Clean" displays a style very similar to the award-winning Dido. It is very rare that an album of such quality from a new artist arrives but this is one of those rare moments. At times there are not enough superlatives to direct towards her..."" Talentstar.net "Haunting might be the best way to describe this release by Joanna McMeikan... She has the dramatic quality of Celtic music and has written songs to back it up. There are tastes of jazz, rock, and electronica here, but McMeikan's voice has a timbre and style that will remind you of singers like Loreena McKennit. Her lyrics are above the ordinary, also... Well thought out production fronted by McMeikan's soaring voice. " Southboundbeat.com CLICK HERE TO RETURN TO NEWS PAGE CLICK HERE TO RETURN TO "BREAKING THE HABIT" PAGE

CLICK HERE TO RETURN TO NEWS PAGE

CLICK HERE TO RETURN TO "BREAKING THE HABIT" PAGE

"Oxford educated and classically trained, McMeikan brings a special artistry and earnest intelligence to the pop arena with her polished full-length CD. “Again” introduces a breathy spot-on vocalist who’s at one with her original material. “Rainbow” and its 'cello arrangement offer a more alternative edge, while “Today” is a moody piano/vocal outing somewhat reminiscent of Kate Bush. A serious artist [with a] vision…”

"Music Connection" review

"It can take a lot these days for artists to get noticed- either the
right person at the right time or a sound that no one has captured
before. Joanna's music, at first listen, confirms that it's plenty
strong for the radio; but with a deeper listen, it demonstrates how it
exceeds the mainstream mold of female piano pop. With a voice like
hers - clear, resonant, right on the mark - and with a knack for taking
pop into territory more adventurous, more potentially dangerous - like
a jungle with freaky creatures you've never seen and trees with
strange adhesions - Joanna gives your imagination and wilder self a
ride while appealing to your day-to-day side that wants solid,
pleasing, satisfying groove. Take a bite out of this juicy album."

cd baby review

"Rarely is a solo debut CD released, whether by an independent artist or an artist signed to a major label, that sounds as though it could have easily been penned by a seasoned veteran. Enter "Breaking the Habit" by singer/songwriter Joanna McMeikan, which proves that, while rare, it is possible.

From start to finish "Breaking the Habit" delivers one exceptional track after another and quite honestly there is never once a dull moment. Joanna's voice is truly stunning and her ability to transition from powerful and energetic one moment to light and angelic the next is awe-inspiring. Joanna not only puts her exceptional voice on display though, she also proves her ability as a songwriter and lyricist having written or co-written the music for all 11 tracks as well as writing all the lyrics.

There were a few a tracks which really stood out to me:

First the dramatic and emotional January Snow. Joanna's voice literally gave me chills which seems fitting considering the lyrics "And I must be broken / So no words are spoken / One more heart is frozen / In this January Snow". Joanna not only shows off her range as a vocalist but also as a pianist, delivering haunting yet passionate melodies you won't soon forget.

Another standout is Rainbow... Past Unconditional is perhaps my favorite track on the CD, with it's rhythmical spoken verses accented by harmonized phrases giving way to an enthusiastic chorus sitting atop an unforgettable driving brass arrangement and room shaking beat, which almost has a big band vibe. As far as I'm concerned Past Unconditional has "hit" written all over it. It's infectious - I found myself repeating the track several times before moving on to the next.

Regardless of the style or mood of each song, Joanna remains in complete control of her voice, never once wavering. Add to that melodies that are easy to fall in love with and a definite replay factor, as you'll find yourself hitting the repeat button of your CD player on more than one occasion. I can't imagine it will be long before Joanna McMeikan becomes a very recognizable name to music lovers all over the world. I know it's a name I'm not going to forget after being fortunate enough to review this CD."

Ventana - Females in Music, www.ventana.cjb.net

"Loreena McKennitt, Fiona Apple and Natalie Merchant combined their vocal talents to turn out this gem. Definitely worth a listen."

MBB Internet Radio

" This very impressive release showcases the incredible singing and songwriting of Joanna McMeikan. Although there is a slight resemblance to Natalie Merchant in terms of vocal style, Joanna cites the songwriting ability of Kate Bush and Joni Mitchell as deeply influential sources, but her literary background certainly has helped her songwriting. Her songs also bring about the fragility and beauty of Tori Amos and the cracked mirror psychology of Suzanne Vega.

Overall, "Breaking the Habit" is well produced and loaded with melody driven songs, sophisticated arrangements, and truly poignant lyrics. The opening track, “Again,” sets the pace for the entire CD, as the remaining songs find their own strengths along the corridors and shadowy corners.

Without question, this is a consistently excellent work from a truly talented artist that deserves wider attention.."

www.buzzcommunicationsmusic.com

"I love your cd! I think you have a powerful and beautiful voice and the songs are strong and unique. Great job on the production too! Great things are coming for you."

John Frizzell, composer ("Alien Resurrection", "Ghost Ship")

"Spellbinding, artistically-driven pop-rock - brings to mind such artists as Tori Amos, Natalie Merchant, Loreena McKennitt, Fiona Apple, Bjork... Music is creative and extremely polished, while vocals are top-notch."

Robert Thompson, Kings of A&R, www.kingsofar.com

"“…A stellar showcase of radio friendly, commercially viable songs which consistently deliver, musically, vocally, lyrically, and artistically on the highest levels.

With a smorgasborg of diverse and well produced tracks, Joanna offers profound insight and poetic reflections on topics that cover the full spectrum of the love experience... Her writing is keen, precise, and deliberate. She has a knack for directing your focus while allowing you to make your own interpretations and draw your own conclusions. She does it with force. She does it with finesse. She does it with humor as displayed in what should be the radio single, "Rainbow," which is a song about using prozac or relying on prozac as "a chemical umbrella to protect her from the rain so she doesn't have to feel." If this song were in a packet it would read: "Instant radio hit - just add airplay."

When the music industry catches this rising star, adult music lovers will become addicted to Joanna McMeikan and find listening to her songs to be a hard habit to break.

Advice: The world is waiting to embrace and celebrate your talents. You just have to find a way to let them know that you exist.”

Gian Fiero, www.musesmuse.com

"Ms McMeikan clearly has the talent to become one of the most prominent female vocalists of the decade. Even at this point in her career, her voice is polished to a brilliant finish. It has the ability to go from a dramatic whisper to an anguished scream, jump two octaves up the scale and back down again, without ever making a misstep. It's a voice with no apparent intrinsic limitations whatsoever."

World of Gigs

"Joanna McMeikan is blessed with a voice that is both earthy and ethereal as if she's a force of nature. She manages to sound sensual and spiritual at the same time, which gives her music a layered sensibility. She creates aural landscapes replete with atmospheres that are somehow cinematic in scope. For example, her vocals bring to mind the barren sparseness of winter when she sings of "January Snow," even when listening on a sunny, Spring day. One visualizes the bright white scenery, bitter cold air, and drab gray skies through McMeikan's musical evocation."

Steve Horowitz, Bitchin' Entertainment

"Joanna McMeikan is certainly a force to be reckoned with. She has strong vocals, the kind that grab your heart and soul - but be prepared for the chill to the bone. These are the most beautiful and extremely professional vocals I have ever heard. The lyrics are very well written. The instruments are excellent - precise, crisp, clear and in all the right places.

Even though I have not personally been privileged to witness Joanna McMeikan live, just from “Breaking the Habit” I would recommend the listener to seek her out and take in a performance. Joanna will totally blow you away with her dynamic vocal technique, a voice that is strong and sexy without being overbearing.

Simply put, it’s great music…

Joanna McMeikan is definitely bound for the big time and in my opinion her fame and fortune will come from material like “Past Unconditional” - very goooood! This little tune could easily send Madonna into retirement!... Another track to watch out for is “Lover of Mine” which shows her diversity as an exploding singer, and her expertise in musicianship and songwriting."

Mary Rudy, Muzik Reviewz

US artiste Joanna McMeikan opens her offering with "Again", a sublime piece of work that is both powerful and emotional. Heartfelt vocals and a unique musical ability... A wonderful track and fully recommended...

"January Snow", a piano-led offering, again shows off Miss McMeikan’s crisp vocals; whereas "Clean" displays a style very similar to the award-winning Dido. It is very rare that an album of such quality from a new artist arrives but this is one of those rare moments. At times there are not enough superlatives to direct towards her...""

Talentstar.net

"Haunting might be the best way to describe this release by Joanna McMeikan... She has the dramatic quality of Celtic music and has written songs to back it up. There are tastes of jazz, rock, and electronica here, but McMeikan's voice has a timbre and style that will remind you of singers like Loreena McKennit. Her lyrics are above the ordinary, also...

Well thought out production fronted by McMeikan's soaring voice. "

Southboundbeat.com

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CLICK HERE TO RETURN TO "BREAKING THE HABIT" PAGE