Only a few seconds after Angels Abacus started playing, I knew I had become an Emily Bezar fan for ever. Now, after listening to her latest CD quite a few times, my first impression has been surpassed. Emily Bezar is one of these few exceptional artist I am very proud to introduce to my friends and loved ones.It is very easy (but unfair) to compare Emily Bezar to Tori Amos and Kate Bush. True there are some similarities... like I can find some between Yes and Genesis. With Amos, Emily shares the sensuality in her singing, but in her case this sensuality comes out in a much more delicate and elegant manner. A song like "Bruno" is a very good example of this. As for Kate Bush, an exceptional voice and the capability to write emotionally stiring music are what bring them closest to each other. The title track "Angels' Abacus" affects me in a similar manner to "This Woman's Work" or "Moments of Pleasure".
The music on Angels Abacus is mostly sensual and melodic though at times it can become quite intense. Also, on a few tracks (like "Walk that Blade" for example) there are distinct jazz textures in the music. Flavors of Joni Mitchell and Steely Dan do unexpectedly pop up a number of times on the album. It should be noted that the musicianship and performances on Angels Abacus are of the highest level and the cast of musicians are given ample place to show their talents.
Angels Abacus is an album that will often find it's way to my CD player in the years to come. This statement, coming from someone being exposed to hundreds of new CDs every year, is a very high praise indeed. Angels Abacus is a "must have" for any fan of the above listed artists... or to anyone interested in beautiful music. Music samples are available at Emily Bezar's website.
