This is one of those rare discs that grows on me the more I listen to it. It's catchy and upbeat, so it works as pure ear candy in the background when I have guests. But it also works in a more intimate setting, in headphones while walking or working out, because there's quite a bit going on in the lyrics too.

Erin McKeown has a fascinating voice. It's kind of tangy, like Dido or Rachael Yamagata, and she brings subtly different vocal characterizations to the different songs. She's not just singing, she's acting, which is appropriate, because one of Grand's themes is the golden age of film. Judy Garland is referenced in two songs, "cinematic" and "vera," and used to perform a third, "lucky day." "cosmopolitans" and "a better wife" debunk hollywood fictions of the ideal life, but the jazzy vocals and music lends a layer of spunky irony. "Cosmopolitans" warns me that "loneliness is expected if not predicted," and although I get the message, I can't help immediately singing along with the insanely catchy, sedative-seeking chorus that follows: "painless! don't you wish you were weightless! famous!"

This is the first Erin McKeown album I purchased (I bought it after hearing "a better wife," which is unlike any other song i've heard recently). I've never seen her perform. Some McKeown fans say this album is too mainstream; compared to her previous work it may be more radio-friendly. (I do find the chorus of "James" reminiscent of Jem's "24!") But in my opinion, this album is far from mainstream. It's catchy, but it's also quirky. The music is retro-influenced. The lyrics are clever. There is only one song I don't like on this album ("vera", kind of drab). And there is only one thing I don't love about this album: it's too well-crafted to be confessional. McKeown uses the term "lady" incessantly on this album. She's very aware of appearances, especially when she's mocking them; and I feel like the emotions here are filtered, so this isn't a good album for cathartic moods (unless you want to be cheered up despite yourself)! But overall I love "Grand". It's fun, it's intelligent, it's my favorite album right now, and I will definitely buy McKeown's next as soon as it comes out.

In Grand, Mckeown blends 60s-era pop and folk with results that are charming and addictive. The quirky songs songs cover everything from the straightforward (bad relationships and career doubts) to the fantastical (a command dance performance), all in a bouncy, cheery beat. A blogger I read said that Mckeown is "playing the soundtrack to my life." I couldn't agree more.

so great. love it and all the rest of her work. this may be the best (at least today). buy it!

I had not heard of Erin McKeown until this past December when she did an interview and played some songs live on my favorite radio station, WNCW, (wncw.org). She came across as genuine, funny, articulate and concerned about her musical integrity. I ended up downloading/purchasing 'Grand' from iTunes and loved it! In fact, so much so, that I'm now buying the CD from Amazon so I can get the full fidelity of the music.

This is one of those albums that just grabs you. It's been number 1 in my rotation since December. It's trippy, fun, full of life and highly recommended.

First, let me say - I really wanted to LOVE this album. Not just like - love, people. I've seen Erin several times, every chance I can get. I have never been disappointed, even when she was playing the material from the album Grand. She is still a fantastic singer/songwriter/performer.

BUT, this album has left a hole... I hate to pigeonhole her and ask that she stay true to her original form on the first two albums... However, this album didn't feel like it was so much her anymore. A lot has to do with the band, but the melodies were much more Popish with only an inkling every once in a while of original style.

Lyrics are still good and her singing has never been better.

I'm sorry Erin, I won't give up seeing you and buying your cds, but I hope you will reclaim a bit of what is yours.