The Billie Hollies

"Chamber folk" is possibly the best way to describe the sound of this Toronto, ON female quartet. This debut album is built upon the songs and vocals of Donna Linklater, framed in inventive arrangements incorporating such instruments as clarinet, Autoharp, French horn and glockenspiel. Linklater's sweet voice is clear, yet fragile, managing to just avoid lapsing into tweeness (Nanci Griffith could serve as a reference point). Her three comrades add vocal harmonies, sometimes producing a near McGarrigle Sisters effect, as on "I Can't Stand To See You Cry." Producer Paul Linklater (Colleen and Paul, Bidiniband) does a fine job balancing the different sonic elements. The bass clarinet work of Julia Hambleton makes for a nice counterpoint to the airy vocals, often interacting effectively with Janet Morassutti's guitar work. Highlights include the gentle "The Prairie Crocus," the more up-tempo "This Light of Mind" and the sparsely haunting "Forgetful Tango." This is a sweet treat.