The follow-up to the record-breaking debut album-Voice Of An Angel (Sony SK60957, 1998)-by young operatic superstar Charlotte Curch is destined to certain success. A widely-aired live video entitled Voice Of AnAngel In Concert (Sony SHV61770, 1999) also received significant international attention and was certified gold by the RIAA. The new album titled simply Charlotte Church (Sony SK64356, 1999) includes a staggering collection of 17 tracks opening with the stunning original contemporary-opera crossover track "Just Say Hello" produced by Trevor Horn. A two-minute edit of the 3:50 track is being used in the Ford Global Millennium television advert. Certain to achievecritical acclaim beyond typical classical circles, further contemporary crossover work would be appreciatedby even broader audiences. Order the album today fromamazon.com.

Charlotte Church provides all lead vocals and is accompanied by the London Symphony Orchestra throughout the recording-their chorus also contributes to the album as does the London Welsh Male Choir. The singer's vast ranging vocal excursions span the recording and include technically superb renditions of classical pieces such as the recent Sarah Brightman "O mio babbino caro" as well as "Lascia ch'io pianga," "The Jewel Song," "If Thou Art Near," "Voi che sapete" and a Brahm's "Lullaby." Her vocal work in Rossini's "la Pastorella" waltz from Soirées Musicales is especially memorable as is "Barcorelle" from Offenbach's The Tales of Hoffmann and the traditional pieces "She Moves Through The Fair" and "Men of Harlech" (with male choir). The stunning ballad "Summertime" from Porgy and Bess and the highly emotive treatment of the secular hymn "Guide Me, Oh Thou Great Redeemer," also with male choir, round out the album.

Destined for great success, this self-titled second albumis technically superb. Accompanied by a lovely booklet withlyrics and translations where required, production quality ofthe recording is top notch as well. This second collectionof Charlotte Church recordings includes a wide selection of musicand fully illustrates the talent of this rapidly emerging vocal talent. Worth a cross-country journey-a must listen!