San Diego Troubadour Review :: Aug 2007 by Chuck Schiele Jane Lui is in her own space. I don't know how to really classify this music. It has many elements, but I think it does disservice to offer my interpretation of what I think those things are. So I'm not gonna do it. I will tell you that it is an impressionistic collection of songs meandering more like sublime moderato dreamscapes as opposed to the usual and obvious strides in kitschy-catchy pop-craft. Lui is a thinker. She see's the world in a unique and beautiful way. As an artist. And I'd say she's more successful at sticking her neck out in the name of originality than most. My respect for that is in kind. One thing to note is the quiet essence of these tracks. The songs whisper more than they ever raise their voice but the work remains urgent somehow by way of its own freedom to go where it's going to go. The music and words are gorgeous. Her voice is flawless, naked, and real, which makes this a good time to switch to the production value of this work. Barkentine was recorded and produced for the most part by Aaron Bowen and Jane Lui. I dare say that Mr. Bowen's ear for production rivals the best around as this is a remarkable recording. It feels like a candid experience - as though she didn't know he was following her around in her own private thoughts that sound much like the whispers and creaks in an old house. And whether it was intentional or not, the primary concern is its own stride toward the idea of 'beauty.' It just sort of is what it is left to the confidence that it is beautiful as is. The effect is deeply moving. That said, there remains a matter of the production style, which is uniquely fresh in its super clean finish, the decisions for simplicity, and the knack for the not-so-obvious choices made in terms of its arrangements (centered around Lui and her piano or guitar for the most part.) You'll still find yourself turning your head now and then in wonderment about either some subtlely crazy sound or a violin that comes and goes like a Doppler-effected train off in the distance. It's more like an energy that moves through you, changes you somewhat, and keeps moving.

944 :: July 2005 Behind the Curtain San Diego Talent in the Spotlight By Vicki Marangos As the radio waves inundate music fans with overplayed, homogenous tracks, it becomes too easy to overlook the other talent and qualities it takes to express yourself through art in a not-so-mainstream way. Few people have the opportunity to turn a true passion into a life’s work, and right here in our backyards, there is a network of artists who strive to do just this by pouring out music — authentic, raw, real — dying to reach us through their art. Read on to get the scoop on some of San Diego’s most noteworthy upcoming talents. Jane The first time we saw Jane play, she was on stage with Dustin Shey, performing a rendition of The Postal Service’s “Such Great Heights,” using a 10-note marimba and a toy piano. And while her sexy, captivating voice does not reveal her quirky yet undeniably charming personality, her music does offer an ample view into the inner workings of her complex imagination. Jane’s new album, Teargirl, is rich with metaphor, capitalizing on stunning vocals to bring elements of fantasy to life through simple stories. In light of her first full-length, Jane launched an entire Web site dedicated to the album, where she provides fans with an up-close look at the concept behind each track, the challenges while recording and those who helped her bring it to life. Her explanations are certainly as eloquent as her craft. An absolute must-hear. Visit www.janelui.com