At times when L’ame Immortelle seemingly has met its maker (ok, not really) its protagonists get it going with their solo projects. In this matter singer Sonja Kraushofer writes Letters To A Stranger, already releasing her fourth album under the name of PERSEPHONE. But before you get to listen to any tune on Letters To A Stranger you will take much pleasure in unwrapping this beautifully designed CD box :)
The CD itself can be found in a paper case with the same motives as on the box. In addition there is a folded booklet with romantically transfigured graphics displaying Sonja and her musicians, plus the lyrics, every one handwritten on an extra sheet and a one for the credits. I do not know if that is really Sonja’s handwriting, easily to read it is not ;)
PERSEPHONE is a classic project, this time even pure in its entirety. Letters To A Stranger got completely recorded with the Philharmonic Chamber Orchestra of Wernigerode. If you don’t like classic generally, or Sonja’s voice, you better get the hands off this CD. Sonja not only ranges in wildly romantic fields, she plays with elements and influences, touches staginess and even goes Tango as on Mean. Accordingly the instrumentation changes and might sound much experimental to unfamiliar ears. Sonja tries a lot but cannot always convince or better said, you have to concede much artistic room to her respectively (Stained, Wishful)
Nevertheless, Letters To A Stranger is though homogeneous and harmonious. Deviations from the basic mood are intentional and well-staged and placed. Here, Martin Höfer not only shines on his cello, but also has done a fantastic job in orchestral arrangements. It is just great what he has done here.
Ok then, for those who need deadly beautiful songs for cold and bleak fall/winter days should try out Fateful, Untitled and Blue. Same goes for the ones having a stranger in mind ;)
Letters To A Stranger is surely not an easy listening album. You need to be open minded, able to get into the music, falling down and following the words. Then this record will unfold its whole beauty.