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Read this - the very first review - then take a look at |
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Aurelie - Angel In Ballet Shoes MOST people in their gap year might choose the admittedly enticing option of burning round the youth hostels of Europe on a wafer-thin budget. But not Farnham's Nick Lewis. He has invested the time in producing one of the most striking records I have heard in an age. Teaming up with close French pal, Aurelie Guinard, who just happens to be a demon vocalist in the PJ Harvey, Kate Bush Mould, the results are spell-binding. Recalling the compelling minimalism of Massive Attack at their best with shades of Jeff Buckley for good measure, this is an awesome record. Lower Bourne might be an unlikely source of production talent, but this is quite unlike any home recording you would ever hope to encounter. The mid-tempo title track Angel In Ballet Shoes proves a deceptive opening gambit, for in its wake lies a raft of eerie, yet beautiful chill-out sounds. Guinard's ethereal vocals are superb throughout and are nothing short of breathtaking in their assured, clear delivery. Speaking to The Herald, Nick explained the roots of his project. "When I was five, I started playing oboe and then took up guitar and must have spent thousands of pounds on equipment in my room. "It's been a huge labour of love. There would be times where I would wake up thinking - that's the wrong sort of distortion on it. But I've learned so much about production and I am pretty happy with the record." And well he might be, as the impressive closing track, In The City, fades out, you know you have heard something of very rare quality. If there's any justice, a major label will pick this up. Superb stuff. Angel in Ballet Shoes is now available at 101 Collectors Records in West Street, Farnham. See the website at www.aurelie.co.uk Neill Barston was writing in The Farnham Herald |
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