Caroline LaVelle's 1995 debut Spirit elicited instant comparisons to Enya for its combination of breathy vocals, pop song structures, and glistening, new age, electronic-tinged arrangements. That comparison, unfortunately, may scare off some listeners who would like LaVelle. Her music is far more somber, and less inclined to fairytale, mythic ambience. Her voice, too, is far deeper and more reserved, eschewing the pristine preciousness of Enya that some find too cloying.
Prior to her debut, the British musician worked frequently as a session musician, playing cello on records...