Artist description The arrangements of the songs on 'Glittering Cities' range from multi-layered synth programs over dance grooves through to a pure acoustic and orchestral approach. The album's lyrics often reflect the artist's interest in all things mystical and esoteric, and this theme is firmly grounded in strong vocal performances, contemporary rhythms and inspired playing from the musicians involved. The backing tracks are at times 'Gabrielesque', at times Celtic, at times even Indie Pop - the vocals and melodies are unique, wide-ranging, strong and smooth. Many people have been moved by her lyric and melody during live performances.

Music Style World Troubador Acoustic Electric Orchestral Mystical Celtic

Musical Influences Peter Gabriel, David Bowie, Fleetwood Mac, Donovan

Similar Artists Peter Gabriel, Toni Childs, Sinead O'Connor.

Artist History Susan Raven is currently recording a new album.

Group Members Susan is at present performing solo although the album 'Glittering Cities' features many fine musicians - like David Rhodes on guitar, Hilaire Penda on bass, Liam Genockey on drums and percussion, Martin Lister on keyboards, Brian Gulland on piano, oboe, bassoon, harmonium..... see song credits and Susan's web site - www.izun.co.uk - for full details.

Instruments 12-string Acoustic Guitar, 6-string Acoustic Guitar, Electric Guitar, Glissando Guitar, Bass, Drums, Percussion, Loops, Keyboards, Synths, Samplers, Strings, Violin, Cello, Oboe, Harmonium, Bassoon, Piano, Whistle.

Albums Glittering Cities

Press Reviews "Susan Raven is a powerful singer and a skilled songsmith, a 21st-century troubador with a collection of beautiful songs. Here at last with her stunning new album "Glittering Cities", is a voice of affirmation, a clarion call to humanity to pursue the positive path of openness, forgiveness and steadfastness.From the opening song of urban angst versus angelic guidance, called "Behind Your Eyes", to the inner city of flying bricks and sirens mentioned in the title track "Glittering Cities", Susan constantly keeps one foot on the earth while soaring to metaphysical heights with her preternatural vocal ability. If the damage of relationships breaking down can be limited, one would wish it to be achieved through the bardic beauty of songs such as "Hope in the Morning". "Here to Be", far from being a discourse on Hamlet, exhorts us to rejoice in our common humanity and revere the planet Earth, while "Stack your Guns", inspired by her meeting with refugees from Afghanistan, is a poignant prayer for those at war to desist and seek another way.The album, from start to finish, is a journey - at one time, highly melodic, ethereal and metaphysical - at another, firmly grounded in strong rhythms and powerful arrangements. Many fine musicians have contributed to the album, including David Rhodes, guitarist with Peter Gabriel, bassist Hilaire Penda from the Salif Keita Band and the innovative percussionist Liam Genockey, recently of Steeleye Span. They have all sonically and rhythmically enhanced the impulse behind her wide-ranging voice and carefully crafted lyrics.Susan's art as a songwriter, coupled with the vision and musicianship of the players, engenders a soul mood that leaves the listener up. Essential listening!" - Positive News - Issue 24 - Summer 2000

Additional Info Glittering Cities is now one of the top-selling independent albums on the web.

Location Wales, UK - -------

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