Odes features the most inspired collaboration imaginable. It is a collection of compositions by
Vangelis with vocals by the great operatic singer
Irene Papas. The vocals, in Greek, become an important instrument of
Vangelis' sound design. He has a knack for knowing when to push the instrumental and when to allow
Papas' vocals to dominate -- even to the point of some a cappella renderings.
Papas is as sharp as ever;
Vangelis is always right there. The atmospheres are strong and the soundscapes are dramatic and dynamic. This hard-to-get classic is essential. It is worth every effort to procure it. The only logical comparisons are
Vas,
Sheila Chandra,
Lisa Gerrard,
Natacha Atlas, and
Yungchen Lhamo. ~ Jim Brenholts