Originally released by Bloodshot in US in 2002, Anti re-released it in 2007
Blacklisted, her third album is the first one that could be called a bona fide classic, a lush, haunting showcase for her awe-inspiring vocal talents. It is also the record where Neko fully defines her voice as an artist, both vocally and musically, and gives us an intensely intimate work that evokes a dark elegance with a hint of twang.
To help create this record Neko brought together a grand cast of scarily talented musicians; among them are Calexico, Howe Gelb, Kelly Hogan and members of The Sadies. Topping it off, Neko’s voice soars and swirls moving from a sultry smokiness to joyful harmony.
The album reflects a lost, almost homesick feeling -- each song aches with vivid images, to stunning results. Although the lushly beautiful album is not conceptual, there's a certain quality about it that's cinematic. Unifying the album is an aura of unsettling vulnerability that envelops the listener. In the end, Blacklisted leaves you weary and heartbroken and wanting more.
"Blacklisted is a spooky, sexycool concoction that adds smoky blues and noirish jazz elements to Case's already distinctive blend. Its cinematic vibe -- all scorched twangs and moonlit echoes -- perfectly matches her wide-open-spaces voice." Detroit Metro Times
Blacklisted confirms that alt-country spitfire Neko Case is a voice to be reckoned with. Her songs of murder and new-moon madness sound as if she's been walking after midnight with the ghost of Patsy Cline." Elle Magazine
“Nothing released in 2002 was as lonely, broken and terribly authentic as Case is here -- and she is only just learning how to haunt us.” D.I.W.
“…It conjures spirits from Patsy Cline to Loretta Lynn and even Mazzy Star’s Hope Sandoval in its mix of hard-luck tales, proud swinging anthems with just a touch of jazz swing, and eerie ambient numbers that showcase Case’s impressive vocal range.” The Boston Phoenix
“Though the sing-along quotient is lower on Blacklisted than Neko Case’s earlier albums, the new direction of her latest album reveals a woman coming into her own as a songwriter.” Paste
“Blacklisted, is sort of like hanging out at One-Eyed Jack’s from Twin Peaks-esoteric, swimmy, and beautiful, but with the distinct feeling that something heavy’s going on in the murky depths.” The Stranger
