Songs for Luci

Paz Lenchantin - Kentucky Hymn.
I fully support the current increase in popularity of small-batch, handmade vinyl-only labels. I love the attention to detail, the designs, the card stock. It's a great thing to order and get in the mail, knowing as much time and effort went into the packaging as did the recording inside. One such label is Black Tent Press here in Los Angeles. They have a small catalog so far but continue to grow, and when their two first releases are from Paz Lenchantin and David Pajo, you know that off to a good start.
The Lenchantin album is short and beautiful, hitting just the right tone. It's quiet without being a whisper, staying close enough to the ground without effervescing. It's also far removed from her current work with the Entrance band and her previous thundering stints with A Perfect Circle. Here she showcases her very able skills at string arrangements, with each song built around lush compositions. It's easy to get lost in here, in a good way.
I'm not sure of the origins of Kentucky Hymn, but it reminds me of the softer side of Ennio Morricone.
You can pick up the new record, Songs for Luci, here. Limited to 1,000 copies and very highly recommended.