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Yulia: Into The West

At 19 years of age, Yulia Townsend is indeed something rare and special. Emigrating from Russia, in two years she has learned to speak English, passed all her high school exams and, amazingly, started a singing career, released this album and been confirmed for tours of Japan and the USA. One listen to the incredibly precise, bell-like voice and you can understand why she received a standing ovation at her debut concert (with Ivan Rebrof!). The track listing does not immediately inspire confidence though - Scarborough Fair, The Prayer, Hoki Hoki Tonu Mai; uh oh, another CD for Nana. But no! Every track is flawlessly delivered, enchanting and very listenable. There is a maturity in this voice that gives no hint of its newness. Mind you, the seriously big guns are in behind her. Sony Music has pulled out all the stops with the NZSO and Carl Doy in production. This is a very nice album. For anybody.

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