Things Here Are Different

Jill Sobule’s 1990 debut was a classic example of an artist having an aesthetic and musical approach fully in place — late 20th century singer/songwriter — but unable to win an audience quite yet. Seen from the vantage point of her later success that’s a bit baffling, since Things Here Are Different has perfectly catchy and well-sung songs bolstered by Todd Rundgren’s production and solid studio musician backing in turn. Only “Too Cool To Fall In Love” was a hit, but other standouts include “Sad Beauty,” “Evian” and the gentle anthem “Tell Me Your Dreams.”