Chantal Acda
Album: The Sparkle In Our Flaws
Label: Glitterhouse
Tracks: 8
Website: http://www.chantalacda.com

The music has a gentle quality and it is easy to see similarities to artists like the XX. The tracks grow in intensity from whispered minimalist beginnings and the repeated motifs layer gradually to build beautiful dreamlike accompaniments to Acda’s lyrics.

The mood of each track is stated with subtlety and care with Chantal’s delicate voice gently inviting the listener further into each composition. Even the introduction of the chorus towards the close of track one is delivered with care contributing to the texture and harmony rather than simply lifting the dynamic.

Track two generates atmosphere from the very beginning as percussion rings out like chimes warning of an approaching storm. Strings and a low rumbling fuel the sensation of growing unrest and this becomes a more defined foundation as the track evolves. Shimmering strings increase the sense of motion as the tension mounts matching the intensity of the vocals until we are left with just the impression of the wind agitating the chimes.

Much of the album is underpinned by a steady pulse, sometimes having the effect of a heartbeat and at other times giving the impression of something mechanical, like a clock quietly marking the passing seconds. In the dying moments of track 3 this hushed ticking seems to unravel in another triumph of the stunning production that features throughout this project.

For all the elegant production you cannot escape the warmth and clarity of the real performances that feature throughout and this live sound has been shaped thoughtfully to help generate atmosphere. At points instruments sing out from the hidden reaches of cavernous spaces and the music is suspended in some shadowy place between sleeping and waking.

The title track stands out with wonderfully rich string writing and a real sense of emotion in the vocal performance. Acda’s voice builds from something delicate and vulnerable to an altogether more self-assured and soaring quality.

It is difficult upon reflection to believe that this musical journey is made up of just 8 tracks as the album offers such variety whilst still feeling like a coherent whole. The lyrical material, delivered so sweetly by Acda, is filled with wonderful imagery and supported perfectly by the musicianship of the instrumentalists and production team. When so many musical offerings shout to be heard it is a genuine treat to be enticed in by something so refined and filled with subtle textures.

Lee Cuff