Aimee Mann kicks off tour at The Coach House tonight

Aimee Mann performs kicks off her Charmer tour at The Coach House. Photo: Sheryl Nields/Courtesy of the artist

No contemporary artist crafts songs quite like Aimee Mann. On her newly-issued album Charmer, the singer-songwriter offers up her literate observations via melodic and haunting songs that go down like vintage power-pop classics while boasting rich sonic colors and lyrical insights that artfully reveal themselves with each subsequent listen.


Retro '80s sounds permeate the cool neo-New Wave "Gamma Ray" and the album's winning title track. The undeniable "Labrador" is as catchy as any song released this year but further enhanced by Mann's emotive soprano conveying the song's deeper feelings of betrayal.

On "Living a Lie," she shares lead vocals with The Shins' James Mercer, their voices forming another magical point on a potent and powerful album.

The good news for Southern California fans of the artist is that Mann kicks off her tour in support of Charmer with a headlining show at The Coach House, 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, at 8 p.m. tonight (Thursday, Sept. 27). Adding icing on the cake is that the wonderful Americana band Field Report will open the show.

Tickets are only $25, and every seat at the legendary Orange County venue is a great one.

Information: 949-496-8930   Online information: http://www.thecoachhouse.com/