Record Rack

*** Abby Travis, “Cutthroat Standards and Black Pop,” Educational Recordings. With this lush collection blending cabaret, classic pop, torchy blues and glitter rock, the Los Angeles musician--known for her work with the likes of Beck and Elastica--spotlights her own sophisticated sonic personality. Despite a few lyrical clunkers, Travis delicately balances sincerity and camp. Her dulcet vocals, veering expertly from world-weary to guileless, make every quirk work.

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