Sunday, September 23, 2007

Chanteuse

We have two new CDs that will introduce you to a couple of talented young singer/songwriters:
Keren Ann is all about the voice. The guitar music in the background is good, and lends a great atmosphere on a couple of the tracks, but the true focus of attention is Keren Ann's wonderful singing abilities. She's not thready, but she's not belting out lyrics like Ethel Merman, either. Her voice is very arresting and other-worldly (like Bjork, only without being high-pitched and screechy. I'm sure I've just offended legions of Bjork fans there). The lyrics are good, but you might not notice them the first time or two through this disc. You'll just be carried away by the voice.

Anjani also has a beautiful voice, but it is the more familiar sultry croon of a dimly lit jazz club. Her voice is warm, mellow and seductive. Don't think about ignoring the lyrics on this CD, because they songs were co-written by Leonard Cohen. And you can tell - his poetic style really leaps out at you. So between Anjani's voice (and piano - she's no slouch there, either) and Cohen's words this CD is sure to please anyone who enjoys great music or poetry.

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