When I first heard about Juana Molina, I was really hoping she would be the female version of Jason Molina. Alas, she is not, but her newest album Son, I would definitely recommend to anyone who loves Animal Collective. Does her album really sound like Animal Collective, not really, but I don’t understand too many of the lyrics, as they are all in Spanish, which therefore leads me to the best possible comparison that I can offer.

Truth be told, this is a disc full of fantastic folk-style music with a twist. There are certain songs that I could easily classify as straightforward folk music, and then Juana will add some layers of horns or other instrumentals and vocals that take tracks in a completely different direction. The fourth track in particular sounds like she incorporated a choir of kittens to “meow” in harmony. This album is just as much an experience as is a recorded piece of work, and I’m trying to say that as a compliment!

Juana is currently on tour with Jose Gonzalez, so make sure to catch them if they swing through your town. Chris from Gorilla vs. Bear offers up a positive review with MP3, which I recommend you check out.