Arches And Aisles

Rebecca Gates possesses a voice that has been known to make adult males bark at the moon. Delivered in her warm, hushed tone, even a reading of the phone directory would sound like a confession of her most intimate secrets. Marking the Spinanes' first album since the departure of drummer Scott Plouf, 'Arches and Aisles' sees the former duo effectively reduced to a Gates solo act. Even alone, Gates ably carries The Spinanes' bright torch. With a variety of instruments and well-chosen guest musicians -- including John McEntire (Tortoise), Sam Prekop (The Sea & Cake), and Doug Easley -- she soldiers on, continuing to broaden The Spinanes' sonic palette. When Gates delivers such intense and haunting soliloquies as 'Slide Your Ass,' The Spinanes outclass any competition. Tender and beautiful, 'Arches and Aisles''s brief vignettes pack maximum emotional punch.