Alicia Solomon is an
American mezzo who studied with Salvatore
D'Aura and Maralin Niska in the 1980s,
and who has performed both as soloist
and as member of the chorus with a variety
of groups across New Mexico. Her solo
roles range from the Queen of the Night
in The Magic Flute in 1987 and 1994,
to Britten's Noyes Fludde in 1999, as
well as sacred pieces and works from
musical theatre. She is currently soloist
with the First Church of Christ, Scientist,
in Santa Fe. This CD represents a mixture
of classical favourites, contemporary
and original pieces.
A pleasing voice, heard
here with a variety of supporting instruments.
She is at her best in the original and
contemporary works, where her intimate
style seems to suit both the words and
music. The four classical tracks that
form the centrepiece of the disc are
less successful to my mind, and my personal
view is that this is a direct result
of the use of restricted accompaniment.
Sung in the same intimate manner and
acoustic as the other works, and in
a subdued ‘chamber music' setting they
do not really work. However, this is
a matter of personal taste and for some
listeners they may sound well. The 23rd
Psalm and On the Willows
(from Godspell) are extremely good,
and perhaps more appropriate for her
voice, with effective double tracking
on the latter. Here I Am, Lord
and I Lift Mine Eyes are similarly
moving and effective and Solomon is
convincing in these compositions.
Not profoundly moving
music then, but it will find a place
with listeners who find quiet, contemplative
singing useful in aiding relaxation
and assisting the reduction of stress.
Bob Bamlett
Alicia Solomon (mezzo-soprano) 
