Neuburg, Amy X – “Secret Language of Subways, The” – [Minmax Records]

The irrepresible Amy X. Neuburg returns again, this time with three cello-wielding divas and a song cycle inspired by her time in the Big Apple, riding subways and peoplewatching. Once again she couples top-notch musical craftswomanship with astute lyrics and humor, both observational and musical. The mood ranges from the zaniness of “The Gooseneck” to the morose ponderings of “Shrapnel”, and even a Genesis cover (“Back in NYC” – the one with the naughty word), but there is no filler in here – each track is solid, both on its own and within the cycle. The Chixtet shreds – cello work ranges from long sonorous pulls to bow-drummed improv, with alternate harmony and dissonance between traditional and new playing styles. All four of Amy’s octaves make an appearance, both naked and postprocessed, plus her usual assortment of samples and loops. Highly recommended.