CD of The Week

Do you like Aimee Mann? Are you a fan of Ted Leo? If you answered “yes” to either question, then you are ready to take on The Both: a collaboration between DIY indie superstar Leo, and pop rock darling Mann. On the surface, Mann and Leo have somewhat conflicting styles, with Leo’s guitar heavy energetic sing-a-longs, compared to Mann’s deadpan, sullen ballads (and yes, occasional rocking songs). But when working together, it is character that matters. And both artists emit strong, honest personalities while staying more down-to-earth than anyone has right. They share a sense of humor, apparent in their live performances, of intelligent, jaded sarcasm that mocks life. And when it comes to their craft, they both have a tremendous knack for complex storytelling.

Their self-titled debut does not disappoint. Much of album is equal parts Mann and Leo. “Volunteers of America” begins as a marching and rocking Ted Leo story. When Mann takes the second verse, the guitar is replaced with a warbling keyboard and she really makes it her own. The song continues on a rollicking rollercoaster ride, with slow tempo Mann valleys and peaks of excitable Leo pride. Even better, “Pay For It Now” shows they can do more than spotlight each other’s attributes in a tug of war. On this side-to-side swaying jangly pop song, they share the stage, crafting one blend of harmonized middle ground.

Fans of both artists might want to (as I did) dig deeper and find out whose album this really is. On one hand, Leo can claim the best song (and first single) on the album, “Milwaukee,” which possesses a joyful, skipping melody and is just as catchy as “Me & Mia.” But Mann brings it on “No Sir,” a slow, off-key tune that is reminiscent of her song “Driving Sideways.”

The Both showcases their talents as individuals and as partners. Mann and Leo strengthen and support each other’s material, filling in each other’s gaps, and offering a second opinion when necessary. They play well together, and are mutually adaptable. The only way to fully appreciate their efforts would be to see them at the Union Transferon Saturday, May 3rd. Go for the songs, stay for their banter.