“The Life of Dreams” introduces Julie Doiron’s 2009 solo album with a basic acoustic plunk that sets a raw, innocent tone similar to the Moldy Peaches’ Kimya Dawson’s child-like approach. And when Doiron adds some drums and electric guitar for the follow-up, “Spill Yer Lungs,” it’s again with a deceptive simplicity that sounds more like a casual jam in the basement than anything intended for official release. The guitars sputter in sudden bursts of acceleration. Doiron’s vocals poke through with muted excitement. This easeful nature plays nicely with Doiron’s relaxed tunes that twirl when the need arrives. “Tailor” shuffles with a jazz-like elasticity. “Consolation Prizes” revs up Doiron’s metabolism. Where her past albums often sounded like art projects meant to be overheard or listened to in small, confined spaces, Wonder embraces a larger outside world where she isn’t afraid of a little extra musical drama. “Heavy Snow” builds to an unexpected climax. Doiron has found a comfortable niche where she can rock or relax in equal measure.
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