Solace

by

Sarah McLachlan

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My first taste of Sarah's music was from her 1997 album, Surfacing. But five months later, and after listening to all eight of her Arista/Nettwerk releases, my favourite album is Solace. The first seven tracks are what makes it truly so special. Drawn to the rhythm is magical in the sense of it describes a beautiful night near the ocean. Into the Fire, my all time fave. song of Sarah's is also her most upbeat, and also her coolest song. Solace is worth it just for Into the Fire alone! The third track, Path of Thorns (Terms) is a good song, but sounds much better on Mirrorball. I Will Not Forget You, the fourth track, is another favourite. A very sad song, that talks about a false relationship, Sarah says it is about using little fantasies inside your mind to entertain you at dull times in your life. (Us hardcore fans can definately relate)! Lost is not a favourite, sorry to say. The male vocals ruin the song, unlike the excellent "Trust" off Sarah's Touch CD. Back Door Man sounds very much like something Paula Cole would sing. Very earthy sound in the beginning, and the chorus kicks off with a great beat and fine lyrics. Definately one of her better songs here. Shelter is sad, a depressing song which I love anyway. The violin mix off "Rarities" may be a better version, although they both sound the same. Shelter is a beautiful song, sad as it is, as it talks about homeless animals and people, struggling for survival. The tracks after that are pretty boring. Black sounds...well...dark and distorted. I'd love to hear a remix, though, because the lyrics are some of her best on this song. Home is not quite as dull. I love it, because I have heard the live version from a murmurs CD, and I must say, she does it well live. This version is mystical and I love the beginning of the song. But the next track may be disapointing. Mercy, with the fine lyrics, has no beat whatsoever. Her lyrics are absolutely wonderful in ever song, but she should've worked harder on the musical parts, perhaps more acoustic guitar and piano would've made Solace a six star CD. Last but not least, Wear Your Love Like Heaven. No, not a favourite, but it's cute. Overall, a fine cd, and proudly one of her best works of Sarah's. She is truly a goddess, and her voice, lyrics and the mood of her songs describes my feelings at certain times in my life. I also reccomend Touch & Fumbling Towards Ecstasy, her 1st and 3rd albums, which make a fine trio of her very best works. Although Surfacing made me a fan, you must'nt overlook her fine firsts, which display her talent in the brightest light. Solace goes to prove that sometimes early works may be some of the greatest. You aren't a Sarah McLachlan fan if you don't own Solace! It's truly a cd you will want to take with you everywhere you go!