Etarlis by Mermaid Kiss

" David Randall, Get Ready To Rock *****

Etarlis is an ambitious and complex work described by the band as a series of musical illustrations of the fantasy story of the same name, written by Jamie and Evelyn over recent years. The music features vocals from founder member Evelyn Downing as well as Kate Belcher, first heard on the band’s previous release, the ep Salt on Skin.

The album’s 11 tracks, written and arranged by Jamie Field and Andrew Garman, range from progressive pieces, full of melodies, counter-melodies, sweeping strings and orchestral sounds, to simple piano based arrangements. An added edge is supplied by lead guitarist Nigel Hooton and a range of woodwind instruments played by Wendy Marks. Guest performances from Troy Donockley (Iona) and Jonathan Edwards (Panic Room & ex-Karnataka) also feature in this hour long journey through a mesmerising landscape.

The story follows the experiences of two friends as they stumble into an alternative world. Etarlis, the country they find themselves in, is caught in conflict and threatened by invaders and is a place beyond reason and science. The girls meet many people on their journey some of whom appear on the album and on the website www.etarlis.co.uk, launched to coincide with the album’s release. Fans of Mermaid Kiss will have noticed the appearance of the protagonists, Anna and Gerri, among the band’s MySpace friends in recent months at www.myspace.com/mermaidkissuk.

Formed in 2000, Mermaid Kiss first appeared on the music scene in 2003 with their debut, The Mermaid Kiss Album. Following Evelyn’s move to university the band began working with additional vocalists, releasing Salt on Skin in 2006. The band’s collaborative approach to writing and recording creates a diverse palette of sounds and styles which defy classification, but which have been described as:

"Haunting, sexy and compelling... One of THE releases of this or any other year." (Michael Sullivan, The Here & There)

"To say this is an emotionally charged album replete with gorgeous melodies, stunning vocal work and beautifully conceived ideas, would be an understatement." (Greg Cummins, Sea Of Tranquility)

"Outstanding... an album of incredible depth and strength." (Russ Elliot, Musical Discoveries)

To find out more about Etarlis, the album and the story visit www.etarlis.co.uk.

Further details about Mermaid Kiss can be found at www.mermaidkiss.co.uk.

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