CD Review: Ireland's Meav Brings Us 'The Calling'

Meav
The Calling
Atlas Realisations/Warner

Meav's golden voice is angelic and crystal clear throughout her new release, The Calling. The heavenly vocals are steeped in new age concoctions wrapped in glistening particles of luscious ear candy. "The Calling" features angelic vocals and a scintillating acoustic guitar line backed with Enya-esque, symphonic reverie. "Light Flight" is a bit punchy with a rollicking acoustic guitar line and angelic, backup vocals. The song is very moving and jig-like with a contemporary edge. The lighter, "The Songline To Home," is a more serene tune with classical and new age characterizations that are very pleasant overall. Overall, Meav's voice is what stands out here. However, the affect could not be achieved without the presence of the instrumental backing. The fluid flutes, cascading vocals, and classical arrangements in a contemporary setting are very memorable and uplifting. If Heaven had a voice, Meav would be the vocalist. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Kami Thompson's 'Love Lies'

Kami Thompson
Love Lies
Warner

The folk-rock ramblings of smooth-voiced, Kami Thompson, brightens the day with sunny, thought-provoking lyrics about life, love, and driving high-end cars that aren't too female friendly. The laid-back guitar work is equally-compelling with Kami's vocals. The quieter moments on "Nice Cars" brings to mind the sophomore work of Zero 7. The London-native brings slightly quirky, bluesy, and rootsy elements to the forefront without resorting to mindless songwriting or meaningless instrumentals. Kami's "Want You Back" resembles a folk-rock anthem that could have been sung by Nina Gordon. The album is only thirty-five minutes long with ten tracks. However, the result is above-average overall. Kami's folk guitar stylings are a perfect combination of talent, love, and emotion. Love Lies is great...and that's no lie! ~ Matthew Forss