The debut album featuring main members Aret Madilian and Beatrice Valantin plus Gerard Madilian, Sheeno and Mia Bjorlingsson. Not a rock album by any means but rather a blend of world music, particulary Oriental styles and the vocals of Aret and Beatrice. The nearest comparison to my ears would be Dead Can Dance, especially in the vocal harmonics but without the Goth trappings of that band. The album has very mellow tunes including opener 'Deleyaman' with it's harmonic vocals and the Oriental feel of 'Ayn Kisher'. Then there is the haunting and atmospheric instrumental 'Guinerk'. 'Almast'has a Vangelis feel about it coupled with some Medieval backing arrangements. Quite a different array of styles which keeps the listeners attention throughout the CD.

Not easy to pigeonhole, which is good as this is unique in style and if you enjoy Dead Can Dance and possibly Enya, then try this album. Nice way to chill out at the end of the day.

http://www.deleyaman.com

****

Review by Jason Ritchie

£13.99

***** Out of this world | **** Pretty damn fine |
*** OK, approach with caution unless you are a fan |
** Instant bargain bin fodder | * Ugly. Just ugly