Quiet and introspective, Damien Rice [ tickets ] had a mild hit on his hands in 2003 with "Cannonball," off his critically praised debut, "O." Then as now, the imagery and tone of Rice's music recalls David Gray, or even Ryan Adams-lite.

But Rice's melodies and subject matter--not to mention his fellow performers--prove that, on "9" as on "O," the singer is much more in touch with his feminine side than most of his contemporaries.

Together with Lisa Hannigan on backing vocals, Shane Fitzsimmons on bass, Tom Osander on drums/percussion and Vyvienne Long on cello, Rice provides a 10-track suite that ranges from insightful and introspective to unapologetic and accusatory.

Indeed, much of "9" is thoughtful and introspective, complete with lines like, "Left this house empty now/Not sure if I belong," from "The Animals Were Gone," a mournful tale of separation and loss. But Rice likes to rock out for a quiet guy, too. It's a side he usually saves for the stage and, until now, has never revealed on disc. That changes with "9," when, on "Rootless Tree," he wails over shattering guitars, "F--- you/ F--- you/ F--- you/And all you've been through!"

Throughout "9," Rice creates moments that are fascinating, with powerful melodies and lyrics. On the mellow, meandering "Dogs," he talks of "The girl who does yoga/When you come over." That song, like this album, is quirky, endearing, and completely rewarding. Only, it takes time for "9" to grab you. After all, Damien Rice isn't much of a yeller--until he gets mad, anyway. Then--watch out.