Sissel - Into Paradise

Nicola Javis checks out the latest ‘Sissel-ing’ album ‘Into Paradise’ from Norway’s number one export Sissel.

‘Into Paradise’ is a different offering from Sissel - whilst she has concentrated primarily on her pop career, here we are given her first crossover album showcasing Sissel’s sweet and authentic vocal ability. What makes Sissel’s interpretation of these classics unique is the fact that she has had no classical training. The result is a beautiful album sung with conviction, purity and bell-like clarity we wouldn’t expect from the trained classical singers out there today.

We are presented with a diverse and exciting track-listing from classical to the traditional and even to pop (even if only briefly). The album opens up with the stunning ‘Vitae Lux’, which is beautiful in its simplicity and uplifting in its melody. She provides us with an alluring rendition of ‘Sancta Maria’; normally given the harsh treatment by soprano greats but given a gentle, yet strong treatment by Sissel. ‘Wachet Auf, Ruft Uns die Stimme’ is by far the most joyful song on the album and the simple, yet appealing arrangement makes way for Sissel’s voice, which really takes centre stage. ‘Dusk’ is in a league of its own, both atmospherically and generically; it’s one of the darker songs of the album and thus it contributes to the album’s diversity. ‘Marble Halls’ was written for voices like Sissel’s; consisting of traditional fairy-tale-like lyrics. Sissel delivers an innocent and calm sadness in her vocal performance which is demanded by the song. ‘Like An Angel Passing Through’ is Sissel’s nod to Abba; it’s a bit of an odd choice on first impression but it is arranged in a way that it suitably complements the rest of the album.

Sissel brings something new and vital to these songs and whilst fans may initially be disappointed about the lack of pop-like material, their disappointment will quickly diminish once they have given her new album a listen. ‘Into Paradise’ allows the listener to melt away and lose themselves in the beauty that is Sissel’s voice. A complete and utter triumph.

‘Into Paradise’ is released 27 February (UK)

Added: February 15th 2006
Reviewer: Nicola Javis
Score:
Related Link: Into Paradise - track listing