Tristan Prettyman continues the 2005 renaissance of the female singer-songwriter with her highly entertaining debut album, Twentythree. Often referred to as a female Jack Johnson due to her surfing background and energetic acoustic style, Tristan Prettyman shows a greater depth of emotion that is all her own. This is an album you need to pick up and give multiple spins to. Prettyman is a refreshing change in a world of manufactured pop confections, and her honest and insightful yet breezy songs wash away the dreck of modern pop and invoke a laid back vibe perfect for summer and beyond. Prettyman's voice is often reminiscent of Heather Nova and Natalie Merchant; at times bouncy and rhythmic and other times soft and sultry. Her music is melodic and a jangly acoustic guitar plays a predominant role. Each song is structured in a fitting manner, hooking you with great melodies and vocals to match; this is a record you will singing along to in your car or at the beach. Prettyman's lyrics are mostly cheerful, infusing her songs with a energy sorely lacking nowadays. When she takes a turn for the serious, such as the painfully emotional tale of addiction in Song for the Rich, you pay attention. And that is really where Prettyman impresses. Instead of taking the easy way out and making a pure upbeat album, she includes songs that are darker, touching on every corner of her emotional palette. If you are looking for energetic singles, check out Love Love Love and Shy Like Me (featuring ex-boyfriend Jason Mraz) and the excellent Always Feel This Way. Song for the Rich and Electric are two songs that touch on the more somber moments, and Smoke is a great balance of upbeat melody with creatively flowing lyrics. Prettyman asks "Shouldnt it be that easy..to just be happy for a while", hinting at the challenges of love and life at an early age. With this album and an impressive live presence, Prettyman is well on her way to success as a musician and as a person.
