GIRLS IN MUSIC

99.9F° (1992) is Suzanne Vega’s fourth studio album, produced by Mitchell Froom and released by A&M Records. The album is especially noteworthy for its vast range of distinct production elements in songs such as “In Liverpool” and “Blood Makes Noise.”

For instance in the opening of Suzanne Vega’s “In Liverpool” (engineered and mixed by by Tchad Blake) begins with a hollow, industrial-like percussive sound followed by a deep bass accompaniment that resonates through the listener’s body. Vega’s voice enters, panned to the left, evening out as the song progresses. A plucking sound joins her at as she sings “The light is pale and thin,” that is chime and bell like but still reminiscent of guitar strings. The chorus is guitar heavy with, with the lyrics conveying this same heaviness. At 2:47 as Vega sings the word “Spreading,” her vocals become muffled and foggy, plunging the listener under water for less than a second before her voice clears out. Throughout the entire piece, unique production elements weave together to match the overall tone of the song.

In 99.9F° Vega’s “Blood Makes Noise” begins with sharp drums and a chain-like cowbell sound that is joined with a buss, subtly leaning towards being panned right. The song also opens with a bird coo, creating an eery feeling. When vocals begin there is a distinct panning for her voice to the right and a distorted electric guitar joins in with her. When the voice begins, all other instruments seem to drown out, seeming muffled. Her breathing is also very intentional. For instance she specifically takes sharp intakes before “You’re asking for.” After the second verse, she sings “Cause blood makes noise,” taking a sharp breath that seems to run into the word noise—which again feels intentional, highlighting emotion. These choices show the thought-out production choices made when creating a chant-like vibe to the song. The song feels like a harsh prayer or mantra and the different panning and distortion make the listener feel as if they are off-balance, adding to the song’s overall theme. Overall, the song’s panning, delay, and unique instrumentation such as the metallic percussive elements create emotions and an atmosphere of mounting fear and paranoia for the song.