(01 October 2000) The first full length album from Theresa Musser's Scarlet's Web is entitled Reborn (Musser Records (USA)JBM 1102, 2000). In addition to providing all of the vocals, Theresaalso produced the recording. Musical Discoveries visitors will recall that Musser was formerly lead vocalist with the alternative/indie rock band Lucid(review). Several of her solo recordings with Scarlet's Web were also discussed at Musical Discoveries earlier this year(review). Recently the track "If ICouldn't Have You" was featured on MTV's series Live Through This.

Theresa Musser is certainly one of the most versatile leadvocalists reviewed in our digest during the past year. While some mightcompare her style to Madonna, her voice is more crystalline, evocative andsensual. The new album includes twelve lightly rocking tracks includingformer favourites "Fragment," "Pretend," "Soul Mate," "Where I Stand"and a lovely acoustic version of "Didn't Know" (review).

Half of the album's tracks are new to Musical Discoveries. Thereis a lovely intro entitled "Scarlet's Chant" with layers of stunning Enya-like vocalise and woodwind sounds. The soft rocking sound of the title track is driven from the lead and backing vocal layers while strings and percussion in the arrangement work perfectly. Theresa's lead vocals carry the melody andare contrasted nicely by acoustic guitar and further string arrangementsand vocal harmonies in the track "In The Dark."

The rhythm of "If I Coudn't Have You" is balanced by the catchy melody delivered in the vocal part. Additional layers provide dimension to the song which was recorded earlier under the monniker "Melancholy Serenade." Theresa's evocative style is combined with her extensive range in the soft ballad "My Room"; harmony vocals and lovely instrumental arrangements perfectly support the artist's lead. The textures further develop in the softly rocking pop-style tune "Tenderloin."

You can order the album and listen to samples from it at the artist's mp3.comwebsite. This album, like therecordings that have preceded it are worth lots of further exploration. The crystalline vocals, excellent songwriting and superb production make thisfull length debut from Theresa Musser's Scarlet's Web a must listen!