Elsiane - Hybrid

It's been a little while since I have been so entirely consumed by a new artist or album.

'Hybrid' has been that album of 2010 for me.

It was originally released by a Canadian duo in 2007, the work of singer/songwriter Elsieanne Caplette (born in Peru) and drummer Stephane Sotto (Husband/Wife team). The name of the collaboration is an amalgamation of their names. From what I have read, they are as collaborative in their work and their style as they are in their name. Taking influences from Jazz, Rock, Classical and Electronica Together they create a mesmerising sound that engages, relaxes and stimulates all at the same time.

When I first discovered this album, I listened to nothing else for almost two weeks. Now, I find it hard to go a few days without hearing at least one of the tracks.

I came across this duo by searching for similar artists to Emiliana Torrini on Last.fm, but I don't really think that is the best comparison. In fact, I'm having trouble working out who I would liken them to.

Elsieanne Caplette's voice is one of the main reasons I adore this group. Again, trying to describe it is difficult. Something like what you would expect elastic or latex to sound like it could sing, but huskier or murkier.

The songs themselves are stunning. The lyrics are elusive and often hard to understand, but even when you read the printed lyrics they don't often make sense. That just adds to the attraction. They songs become a mix between a mix of what you can understand, and noises that simply express emotion that can be interpreted in any way that the listener wants.

This album is simply brilliant. Its highlights include Mend (To Fix, To Repair), Vaporous, Paranoia, and Hybrid. That does not mean that the others are to be disregarded in any way. Even the two instrumental tracks are fantastic in their own right and complement the album perfectly.

I cannot recommend this group enough and my only criticism is that this is the only offering we have from the pair. Having been three years since its release, I wonder how long we will need to wait for more. However, as they began working together in 2000 and took seven years to release Hybrid, let's not rush them. I'm a firm believer of not rushing good things. Kate Bush's Ariel is all you need of proof of that.

Their offical site is their Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/elsiane

But another interesting one is: http://www.behance.net/gallery/Elsiane/41664

Have a listen when you can, and let me know if you were as impressed as I was.