Sometimes the use of unusual instrumentation makes pedestrian music seem more interesting than it is. Then there's Nikkiesha McLeod, who uses almost every instrument under the sun (literally; steel pans are used liberally) as almost an afterthought to her innovative work.

Nikkiesha McLeod Quarrel (self-released)

These aren't songs so much as compositions. Among the instruments McLeod uses are multi-tracked vocals, and often the structure veers toward the avant garde. The unusual arrangements and instrumentation are just the introduction. McLeod's pieces are as poetic as her lyrics.

Lyrics that might be sung or spoken. In fact, "Heart of Dangerous Light" is pretty much a spoken poem with piano accompaniment. Within the context of the album, that makes perfect sense.

Not every day, ordinary or particularly easy to process, Nikkiesha McLeod has crafted one of the more arresting and challenging albums I've heard this year. There's so much going on here, I think I'll be pondering this one for ages to come.

Jon Worley