" My vote for one of the best of the new generation."
Joe Boyd (Record Producer: Nick Drake, Pink Floyd, Sandy Denny, REM, Fairport Convention)
Perhaps best known for writing the song 'Summerbreeze' that appeared in the TV show 'Buffy the Vampire Slayer' and was recorded by Emiliana Torrini for her Roland Orzabal produced album ' Love In The Time Of Science.
Introducing Mark Abis, British author, composer and folk musician who has put together a compilation of his best work since 1995. He is essentially a solemn man with a superb voice that is not only soft and warm, but is also particularly sensual.
The voice is usually accompanied by a lone acoustic guitar when it is not supported by arrangements which are either ethereal or have richer bluesy strains. Everything slips delicately into place as you listen. The melodies are straightforward and refined. Dream Come True and Steppin Out are truly likeable, and could have been written especially for those comfortable evenings spent around a good fire in great company. One is reminded of the subtle minimalism of Nick Drakes seminal and sensitive Pink Moon.
Despite this, Abis doesnt confine himself to intimate folk and somehow manages to emerge as a true, bluesy folk band with a sprinkle of orchestral arrangements.
The addition of backing vocals, 70s style keyboards and bass give pronounced bluesy tones, which can be heard in Through The Heart Of New York featuring the hazy tenor sax of Eg White, a musician who shows a forever evolving instrumental dexterity and who happily takes on several different fundamental roles to complement the seemingly calm & uncomplicated character of Mark Abis.
As in Stronger Than Desire, the use of harmonica can always bring a sophisticated touch of blues.
Gently out of kilter with the other tracks on the album, Changing Inside and Heaven Is Your Face have more of a Pop feel. Less intimate and withdrawn than the other songs, they are no less indispensable for their light-heartedness, and breathe a bit of variety into the compilation.
Mark Abis lullabies soothe us into a state of peace and tranquillity far removed from the chaos of everyday life.
Review by Ejeh. In obskure magazine, France