SARAH MCLACHLAN AFTERGLOW ALBUM NETTWERK, ARISTA, BMG RELEASE: FEBRUARY 25, 2004 REVIEW: FEBRUARY 28, 2004

This is perhaps not your typical Release artist, but Sarah McLachlan is signed to the legendary independent label Nettwerk, has been contributing vocals to Delerium, been remixed by Hybrid, BT and William Orbit and so forth. So we thought it would be interesting to hear what she sounds like nowadays, as it’s been seven years since her last studio album.
I think this genre is called ”ethereal pop” in the States, which means there is usually female singing over lush soundscapes. Might not sound intriguing, and actually the first time I heard this album I actually thought it was pretty boring. Very slick radio pop with a tinge of country – and of course it still is – but Sarah's magnificent voice, the over-professional production full of details, subtle electronic washes underneath the beautiful guitars, as well as strong melodies make this album a big grower.
Now, of course I don’t expect you to like this if you’re into say Feindflug or Suicide Commando, but if you're into the poppier end of music, this album might suit you. Imagine the latest Cardigans album perhaps, only better. A bit too smooth for its own good, but this is so called quality stuff, ladies and gentlemen.

JOHAN CARLSSON