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Orange Juice marks a new chapter in the musical life of Annie Quick. When the various members of Stickman Jones left the band to pursue other ventures, Annie was left to fend for herself.  The result was a fresh sound, new songs, and an amazing album.

This album is jam-packed with creativity.  From the interesting combinations of instruments and tones to the insightful and poetic lyrics, it is obvious that this is one woman who can think past the musical clichés of the day and create a masterpiece.  Each song stands firmly on its own two feet, and yet the album comes together to form a cohesive work of art.

While Annie was the lead singer of Stickman Jones for many years, Annie's new project bears little resemblance to the folk stylings of that group. The singer-songwriter has picked up her electric guitar, pumped up the volume and written some solid rock songs.  The expression is real, the lyrics are honest, the music is mature and, as always, Annie's voice is amazing: it's as though she has come into her own with this album.

Any review of this album would be remiss not to mention the lyrical content. It is obvious, even to the passive listener, that Annie is a poet.  She crafts lyrics of such beauty that they don't need to be sung to be appreciated -- a reading would suffice.  "Sweet, sweet on the tip of my tongue.  Cool, cool as the day is long.  Smooth as passion.  Silken as desire." begins the song "Innocents."  Lyrics such as these grace the album from start to finish.  "Beautiful," the song from which the album title is taken, is another example of Annie's artistic weaving of words.  It is written in the first person and is to be understood as the words of God. Often a song which takes this approach ends up sounding trite or disrespectful; this is one that does not fall victim to that disease. Instead what we are left with is a striking love song.  "This is the way the morning creeps into your room.  This is the sunshine on your orange juice. This is my way of telling you, that you are beautiful."

Not only are the lyrics and vocals a true wonder, but the arrangements are captivating.  The instruments dance around each other like a well choreographed ballet.  Each instrument plays its part to form a masterful foundation upon which the vocals are laid.  The production and engineering are incredibly well done, and there are no complaints to be made concerning instruments being buried in the mix.  Even the background vocals are balanced perfectly to complement, instead of detract from, the lead vocal track.

This album is a must have.  It is amazing on many levels and will keep the listener interested and thinking for a long time to come, which is why the length of the album is a little disappointing.  The music is so incredible that one only wishes there were more.  Thankfully, this is an album that a person could listen to over and over again and not tire of.  So get yourself a copy, stick it in the player, hit repeat, and enjoy!

Trilisa M. Perrine 8/05/2002

Originally slated to be released as the fourth Stickman Jones album, because of personnel changes within the band Orange Juice has been released as the first solo project from band member Annie Quick. As with past releases this newest addition to the collection is top notch from start to finish. Back once again are the familiar faces of Jad Mintun, David Sacks, Rob Curto, and Mark Giacobbe. The newest additions to this family of players are vocalist Sarah Lentz and drummer Jesse Sprinkle, also along for the ride is "Saturday Night Live" drummer Shawn Pelton. Recently Annie has also picked up a lyric writing partner in the personage of New York novelist, Amy Eck. Amy's inclusion as a song writing partner has served to only strengthen what were already nearly perfect songs. It would be like Stephen Lawhead teaming up with Bill Mallonee, I can see only good things coming out of this partnership.

Musically this new endeavor follows the natural progression that began with Ripple and followed through with Blinding Bright and Luxuria. There are still hints of Americana here but it is much more than that. Annie Quick has become an important voice in modern urban folk music. I have been familiar with her music for about three or four years now and find great delight in watching her grow as a artist and songwriter. I can see her being mentioned in the same category as others such as Bill Mallonee, Bruce Cockburn, Mark Heard, and Julie Miller. Not only has she grown as a song writer but she has turned into quite a good guitar player
as well. 

If you are unfamiliar with the music of Annie Quick & Stickman Jones then this is the perfect place to start. It will just whet your appetite to pick up the rest of the collection. Check out her web site at www.anniequick.com  or www.stickmanjones.com.

Chris MacIntosh aka Grandfather Rock 8/11/2002