Review Summary: Despite lacking in focus or direction, My Very Private Map is a highly enjoyable collection of incredibly varied and well-crafted songs.
Ten in the Swear Jar was one of the various short-lived bands that Jamie Stewart was involved in prior to the formation of the project he is most well known for, Xiu Xiu. Although they bear many similarities to Xiu Xiu, most notably Jamie Stewart's idiosyncratic, highly emotional vocals, they are, in my opinion, much more accessible.
The most obvious reason for this is the implementation of a much fuller range of timbres and instruments. Although, like Xiu Xiu, they still most prominently use programmed beats and synths, Ten in the Swear Jar feature various other instruments like saxophones, accordions and more varied percussion. This broader range of sounds enable Ten in the Swear Jar to create an interesting and rich soundscape. It also important to note that one of the albums' strengths is that all the songs are completely different in their mood and atmosphere, from the meandering and melancholic Helsabot to the explosive Sita Deth to the powerful and driving Sad Girl, My Very Private Map is an impressively diverse listen. The utilisation of various sounds and intricacies, such as a phone ringing, in the interlude Hair, Hair, Hair, Hair, Hair again broadens the scope of the album and repeated listens will lead to noticing little details that enhance the album. However this is also one of the album's faults, in that due to the large variety of moods present on the album, it feels like a collection of great songs rather than a coherent album.
Overall, My Very Private Map is a very interesting and enjoyable album. Jamie Stewart's vocals and the eclectic range of instruments make this essential listening for anyone into experimental electronic or rock music, especially fans of Xiu Xiu.
