by Catherine L. Tully

Artist: Marooned
Album: "Better Than Live"
Year produced: 2007

This is CD number two from Marooned and it's a real auditory treat. Harmony is the true backbone of it all here; a capella-style. The vocal sounds are sometimes eerie, sometimes fun, but always excellent in quality. This is no amateur hour, and the use of voice is unique, not always following an expected pattern. The women's vocal harmonies are crisp and crystal clear as in track 7, "My True Love." When the men's voices join them it brings a richness and full dimension to the sound. Having an entire album without music is a challenge to do and make sure it is still listenable, but it is done without effort here.

The band began in 1995 in Las Vegas at the "Age of Chivalry Faire," and they have performed extensively at a variety of faires since then in addition to recording CDs. Some of the individual members have come and gone through the band over time, but most seem to circle back here and there and make an appearance.

If you like to lose yourself in harmony, this is a must have CD. Track 12 has Marooned singing rounds and it is incredibly well done. You'll get a full 15 tracks--all filled with some satisfying sounds, be they happy or filled with longing. The last song--"The Dutchman"--tops everything off nicely; a solid ending to a delightful album.

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Catherine L. Tully is a freelance writer and photographer who specializes in the arts. She has written for American Style and Classical Singer, among others and reviews music for Marc Gunn's Celtic MP3s Music Magazine. You can reach her through her photography website at www.moonbeamdigital.com.

Labels: cd_review_2007

Posted by Marc Gunn, Friday, October 05, 2007.
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