Continuing a countdown of my favorite albums of 1995…
#3 – I’m With Stupid – Aimee Mann
I have a fondness for gateway albums, the first work you hear from an artist who goes on to be a favorite. Often those records remain among my favorites even if other work eclipses them creatively.
Aimee Mann’s I’m With Stupid was my first real exposure to the singer-songwriter, apart from knowing the hit single ‘Voices Carry’ by her band ‘Til Tuesday.
This album’s single, ‘That’s Just What You Are,’ was included on a mixtape given to me by a friend and it made an immediate impact. I sought out the album and found the same blend of pop smarts and melancholy that have fueled Mann’s career from the start.
I made it a point from that day forward to listen to everything she’s done, including some truly transcendent work, but I’ll always have a soft spot for this album because it came first.
I’m With Stupid also sounds a little different than the rest of her catalog. It’s her only album produced entirely by Jon Brion and I think some of his off-kilter sensibility shines through. This is her most playful album, even as it features some real heart-tugging material.
Hearing this also reminds me that it’s been seven years since Mann’s last proper studio release (not counting a collection of songs she wrote for a stage play). I think we’re past due for some new material.
And that could be a shame
‘Cause though I think I know another lonely exile when I see one
And you appear to be one
Still…
I’m playing it down ’cause I could really be found if you’ve got it to spare
I’m playing it cool but it’s terribly cruel ’cause I oughta be there
Ray, what can I say?
You don’t know me, and it’s just wishful thinking to keep myself from sinking
And hence, no evidence to support any theory I have handy
If you could understand me
And so…
I’m playing it down ’cause I could really be found if you’ve got it to spare
I’m playing it cool but it’s terribly cruel ’cause I oughta be there
‘Cause you’re as bad off as me…
Ray, can we repay ourselves for days that we’ve lost through indecision
With one of recognition?
If so, then here I go, ’cause some things you know…
And some you just believe in
And hope it comes out even
I…
I’m playing it down ’cause I could really be found if you’ve got it to spare
I’m playing it cool but it’s terribly cruel ’cause I oughta be there
I oughta be there
I oughta be there
I…
Meet Me In Montauk 
I believe the first time I had exposure to Mann as a solo artist was hearing her songs used in the movie Magnolia, including in particular “Wise Up” and “Save Me.” Good stuff!
Not sure why, but this album cover made such an impression on me. Not sure I ever heard the album in full, but I recall being struck by the whimsical cover.
I do love Mann’s voice, though her melancholy gets a bit too much. I should give this album a proper listen.
she has a lovely voice