DeVotchKa Album: “Una Volta [Digipak]”

Every time I get a new DeVotchKa album, it's all I listen to for, well, long enough to drive my husband crazy. This is actually the last one I ended up buying, and I'm glad I finally did. It's as amazing as the others. As gorgeous, grand, dramatic and romantic as How It Ends. The Oblivion and One Last Vow are both beautiful songs. And there are plenty of songs to clap your hands to as well. Their music is so layered and complex, and just speaking to my own tastes, I think Nick Urata has one of the best voices I've heard. DeVotchKa is probably the most eclectic and evocative band in my collection.

despite the crooked fingers apologists comments, this is a group of musicians who play an incredibly fun show and get people moving. How can anyone think all of their songs sound the same? It would be akin to saying all Radiohead sounds the same or neutral milk hotel are wieners. Do yourself a favor and listen to it, better yet, go to one of their live shows, then judge for yourself.

This is easily DeVotchka's best album, though SeuperMelodrama and How it Ends are outstanding as well. Una Volta is certainly the gypsy-est of them. Its sounds range from Ukranian folk dance to mariachi, all under Nick Urata's crooning wail. The lyrics are usually about romance or lost love, but never get boring. The songs can be incredibly sad, happy, or a mixture of both. It's best to listen to the CD from start to finish to fully appreciate it.

I highly recommend this album to anyone who likes indie or just music really far off the beaten path.

These folks are deserving of much more mainstream recognition. Their live shows thrill the crowds. The talent is deep here, and the music indefinable (...but I'll try). Nick Urata has a beautiful voice, he's an accomplished crooner. The song styles are widely varied, beyond genrefication really, and showcase the musicians many talents on violin, accordion, upright bass, trumpets, drums, guitar, etc. Imagine modern gypsy rock meets chamber music... for a start. Una Volta has several tunes that simply make you happy to be alive... "Queen of the surface streets" & "Ocean of lust" are ready for radio. If you like U2/ The Pogues/ & Coldplay, this band is for you.

Pretty good band - just wish they wouldn't bury the vocals. More rock bands should have tubas.