“Unseen” is the impressive debut from singer-songwriter Lori Cunningham. This release combines dreamy, electronic arrangements with deep, introspective lyrical prose to create a moving listening experience for the Angelic Voices audience.

The album begins strong with “Reflections”, a primarily instrumental track laced with beguiling vocal work. It prepares the listener for an enchanting, contemplative experience. The remaining compositions ebb and flow from sweeping, ethereal tracks to infectious, upbeat tunes that issue a challenge to pursue dreams and love without restraint.

“Silver Threads”, “Inside”, and “Without You” are prime examples showcasing Lori’s passion for creating songs that examine the soul. In addition to eleven original compositions, the CD also features a dance/trance remix version of “Empty Well”, and an instrumental version of the title track “Unseen”. While it has universal appeal, fans of ambient greats such as Delerium and Sleepthief will thoroughly enjoy this emotionally charged experience. Even the CD artwork beautifully portrays the esoteric vision within.

As a classically trained vocalist, Lori made a conscious decision to follow her dream of creating music the way she wanted rather than performing as instructed by her professors. I applaud the risk she has taken as her obvious vocal range and depth is explored throughout this release. I hope to see this exhibited to an even greater extent in the future, therefore I am looking forward to her continuing collaboration with Adam Amos (also featured on on 3 tracks on “Unseen”) on the project “Emeria”, to follow her progression as an artist and vocalist. -Jess Hanna

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The debut self-titled album from Summer of Space is dynamic and hypnotizing. The infectious melodies and introspective, thought-provoking lyrics dare the listener to explore the depths of their own psyche. The range of emotions, from thankful praise to heart-felt self examination, reveal the ups and downs felt by all of humanity throughout time.

Through her impressive vocal performances, singer/songwriter Haley Gibby is able to express feelings of gratitude, desperation, and perseverance. In 2001, Haley teamed up with music producers Finn Bjarnson and Ryan Raddon (Kaskade) to create the project Summer of Space. In March 2007, their dedication and combination of creative talents paid off with this electrifying release that thoroughly entertains and engages the listener.

I was particularly taken with the exploration of the subject of spirituality, presented in an inspirational, yet subtle, style that reverberated throughout this release. The album starts out strong with “With You”, but other standout tracks include “New Found Art”,“Drowning”, and “Solace”. I feel these display the greatest depth of this project’s talented team. Fans of bands such as Beauty’s Confusion, Mandalay and Weekend Players will surely enjoy this album. “Solace” is an extraordinary work that is well worth the listen. It is a positive, uplifting experience that will leave a lasting impression. -Jess Hanna

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Our Broken Garden’s, “When Your Blackening Shows”, is a haunting slow ride, featuring singer-songwriter Anna Brønsted of Denmark. While primarily a solo project, the album also includes the raw talents of Søren Bigum on guitars, Moogie Johnson on bass, Poul Terkildsen on percussion, Palle Hjorth on organs and Lise Westzynthius on piano. This team combines their efforts to create the moody, thoughtful melodies to lull the listener into a dream-like state of consciousness.

These elements are especially evident on the title track and “La Sagitaire”, which I found to be the stand outs on the album. Some may feel the content is monotonous at times, but it will appeal most to a mature, thoughtful audience. Anna’s child-like vulnerability shines, similar to that of the great Stina Nordenstam. The melancholy, dark, enchanting compositions make this a release to reflect on.

Although “When You Blackening Shows” launched the band independently through word of mouth, their recent signing to the Bella Union record label will surely bring about even more recognition. Since this signing, Our Broken Garden has additionally released an EP entitled “Lost Sailor”. Check them out today! -Jess Hanna

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Sambassadeur’s “Migration” is a delightful Indie Pop treat, influenced by music from the early 60’s to new wave, modern alternative, and beyond.  The soothing vocals and cheery melodies create a nostalgic, feel-good daydream.  This album bursts forth with strings, guitars, and electronic elements, creating an engaging experience.

The album opens with “The Park”, an infectious song with an irresistible presence. The creative lead guitar and driving forces make for a great opening track.  “Subtle Changes” continues the upbeat pace, putting a smile on even the most cynical listener. The mood slows with “Falling in Love”, a dreamy piano driven trip, exploring love and devotion.  Migration picks back up with “Final Say”, a throwback to great new wave tunes of days long past.

Anyone who enjoys Club 8, Acid House Kings or the Cardigans would be missing out if they passed on this inventive release from Labrador Records. Sambassadeur successfully combines elements from various genres to create a dazzling display of talent and heart. -Jess Hanna

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Marcomé’s “River of Soul” is a rich, soothing ride from start to finish. Beginning with a soulful siren call, she draws the listener into a series of dramatic dreamscapes, each painted with a life of it’s own. “River of Soul” is peppered with inspired musical and lyrical sound pictures spanning the globe and time. I imagine the fascinating worlds described within passing through my ears and placed before my eyes in vivid detail, with Marcomé as the ultimate tour guide.

The production quality of this release is excellent. Everything is perfectly balanced, allowing the listener to absorb each bit effortlessly. It deserves more than one listen to truly appreciate the effort and emotion knitted together in splendid harmony. This work was clearly a labor of love for the multi-talented Marcomé.

To further impress, Marcomé produces, arranges and engineers her musical work. She is a keyboardist, programmer and sound engineer as well as a proficient percussionist. This is extremely refreshing when compared with the vast number of vocalists and songwriters who hand over their work for others to dissect, destroy, and sanitize as they see fit. This blesses Marcomé with a musical purity that is too often lacking in today’s music.

The tracks I enjoyed most are “River of Life”, “Arabica”, and “Terra Africana”. Each transports the listener to a vastly different world filled with adventure, mystery and romance, providing a blissful escape from daily life. Fans of Caroline Lavelle and Clannad will surely be taken in by Marcomé’s New World voyage. -Jess Hanna

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