Sarah Brightman

Is it the levitating quality of her sparkling, childlike voice? Or the unexpectedly robust turn it takes as she bursts into a soaring soprano? Is it the simple, schoolgirlish mannerisms she imparts off-stage? Or the imposing, larger-than-life diva persona she exudes on-stage?What is it about Sarah that entrances us so? Remarkably enough, even her die-hard fans have trouble pinpointing the elusive, yet undeniable, appeal of Sarah Brightman. All agree, however, that the uncommon juxtaposition of waif-like vulnerability and worldly sophistication, in both voice and manner, casts an irresistible allure.Even her music defies categorization. Through the years, Sarah has confounded critics and record stores alike. It is not surprising, considering that her career has not only transcended musical genres, but has so deftly blurred the lines that divide and pigeon-hole musical forms. From pop to goth, rock, musical theatre, opera to classical crossover, few artists can lay claim to such musical breadth and depth. Having sold over 25 million records and firmly cementing herself as the pre-eminent Queen of the classical crossover world in recent years, Sarah has chosen once again to challenge herself and break new musical ground.Harem, her new album, is an intoxicating fusion of percussive world beat, dance grooves and pop sensibilities, carried forth by Sarah's sometimes tender, but always entrancing, vocals. Harem is a master-work, a fascinating amalgam of classic orchestral virtuosity, driving synthesizer beats and exotic musical instrumentation, punctuated at times by an operatic aria or two. Haunting vocals, delicate nuances and intricate rhythms artfully coalesce into an epic soundscape that is seamless in execution, sweeping in scale and soaring in emotional cadence. Like Sarah herself, the album is mystical and enchanting.