Debut by mercymachine

And that "internationalness" is quite evident in their music; in the melodies, in the amazing mixture of sounds and instruments and, perhaps most importantly, in the energy and spirit. They make confessional music that has been inspired by such poets as Robert Creely, Emily Dickinson and Rainer Maria Rilke, but this is only just a starting point for creating music that boldly soars into the future."

-- John Schoenberger, TotallyAdult, AlbumNetwork

"Mercymachine's debut disc is one of the most adventurous recordings in the region. Songwriters Susanne Turner and Jazno Francoeur employ the delicate, emotional song structures of Kate Bush and Tori Amos with a jazzier freedom that allow the 7 member band to stretch and solo with reinforcing textures. For example, "My Father's Hand" begins with a multi-tracked dub of Adeboye Adegbenro's floating sax solo that induces a haunting tribal rhythm before settling into one of Turner's soft chants. If you enjoy easy, soothing transitions, every track here is blessed with meditative pacing, moody atmospherics (provided by the group's use of tablas, upright bass, and bodhran among the exotic instrumentation), and outstanding musicianship. Recommended."

-- Richard Proplesch, Jam Magazine

"Enter mercymachine, the brainchild of creative partners Susanne Turner and Jazno Francoeur. This underexposed Indie release has its share of deep, abstract lyrics, though its strength lies in its worldly musical creativity. Mercymachine is strong, original, and thought-provoking. This work from Susazno Beast Records is both lamenting and exuberant. The haunting harmonies and internationally spiced stylings set this one apart from its peers."

--Rick Carr, KZFR, Chico, California

"Wow. Simply put, Mercy Machine is the best band in Orlando. Singer-guitarist-visionary Susanne Turner has finally found the perfect home for her emotive music. Bathed in lush instrumentation, 14 tracks on this self-titled, self-released debut are nothing short of fantastic. And the production -- typically the Achilles heel for local band recordings -- comes through, adding the appropriate warmth and sincerity to the project. Turner's warm, inviting voice shines over the top of classical guitar, bodhran, cello, and fretless bass on tracks like "Bastard," "Plain," and "Der Traum." Actually, the disc's list of guest musicians reads like a who's who of Central Florida talent. This is serious Sarah McLachlan/Dead Can Dance-type stuff. Shut up and listen -- mercymachine is calling."

-- Mark C. Padgett, Orlando Weekly

"Mercymachine combines the rootsy-but-offbeat approach of Cowboy Junkies with the ethereal qualities of classic 4AD artists. Anchored by the flutey, mellifluous voice of Susanne Turner and the overall vision of instrumentalist/producer Jazno Francoeur, Mercymachine weaves a rich sonic tapestry on their self-titled debut. Turner's lyrics explore the mixed pain and intimacy that form the core of many relationships, often delving into the shadowy, closeted world of lingering childhood dysfunction. But it's all imbued with a hope and optimism that's beautifully communicated in Turner's honest performances. A superb debut."

--Andy Hinds, All Music Guide

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