Not left up to 'fate'

Female singer/songwriters are a dime a dozen, so it takes something extra special to get recognition in that genre. We already have Fiona Apple, Alanis Morissette and Jewel (who even hails from Earl's home state of Alaska). But Kate Earl offers something just a little different than those who have paved the road for her. \nWith a beautiful voice, incredible piano talent and backing vocals, Earl's Fate is capable of bringing tears to your eyes. To say that these songs are autobiographical is unnecessary. Earl seems to have been through more heartbreak than a twenty-something deserves. Her fun yet simple lyrics come across painful at times, but maintain that hope that keeps you going. \nThe feel of Alaska comes through in her songs as well; the dreary winter seems endless. On "Hero" she expresses the disappointment that comes with losing someone close at a young age: "this is the coldest winter in a thousand freezing years, and if I started crying I could never stop the tears." \nWith many emotions running through her mind she seems to try to focus on the anger she feels for her "Hero" father: "you don't know what you've done, not here to see the repercussions of your love." The song certainly isn't a eulogy for her father's funeral. "You're not my hero anymore," she sings. \nMusically, nothing about the record jumps through the headphones or speakers. It seems merely the sheet of paper for which to display her lyrical and vocal talent, yet the two shoulder their respective loads with grace. She nearly echoes the sounds of the heavens; no current musician can top her voice. Her most impressive song musically comes as the not-so-hidden hidden track, "Surrender," which features bassy drums and electric guitar, but showcases few lyrics. Choosing a best lyrical song is as difficult as choosing your favorite Beatles song, (well, maybe not quite that hard). I'll give the nod to the aforementioned "Hero." Coupled with her beauty is her kindness. Having met her after her opening show for Matt Nathanson, she seems to have quite a future ahead of her. And with a debut performance like Fate Is the Hunter, she's a surefire star in years to come.