On Martha Wainwright’s last album, her highly praised (and deservedly so) self-titled debut and its collectible predecessor, BMAH, she delivered a collection of anger that was so good, you had to wonder where she has been all of the previous years.  Sister to the popular Rufus Wainwright, niece to Sloan Wainwright, and daughter to longtime folk favourites, Loudon Wainwright III and Kate McGarrigle, Martha has emerged on her own to be a talent who turns all her songs into emotional investments.

On her latest album, I Know You’re Married But I’ve Got Feelings Too, Wainwright attracts a wealth of talent to help make this album even more of an impact.  Pete Townshend (The Who), Garth Hudson (The Band), Donald Fagen (Steely Dan) all make appearances as well as members of the family (Rufus, Kate, and 1st cousin, Lily Lanken).

“Bleeding All Over You” carries the line that titles the album.  It begins with a percussive heartbeat, becoming a wonderfully expressive folk song.  It is followed by a great, radio-friendly Pop track called “You Cheated Me,” which would be my absolute choice as a first single.  But Pop is not Wainwright’s stock in trade nor is it what she aims for.  Her writing and singing style allows her to move in and out of various music styles effortlessly, and she does just that. With such strength in not only her voice, but also her ability to create songs, this album defies all attempts to categorize it.  It will command your attention and perhaps even deliver a piece of your heart to her.

Martha Wainwright gave notice of her arrival with her debut.  On I Know You’re Married But I’ve Got Feelings Too, we recognize her as an amazing and immense talent, talent that intends to stick around.  I Know You’re Married but I’ve Got Feelings Too is a masterwork.  I can’t wait to hear how she tops this one.

But I bet she does.