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Clear Horizon | s/t (Kranky)
In terms of artist pseudonyms giving an accurate reflection of the musical output, you'd go a long way to find one more appropriate than Clear Horizon. The result of the shared studio time of Jessica Bailiff and Dave Pearce of Flying Saucer Attack, this album delivers everything that the collaboration promises - not a great deal, and all the better for it. Those familiar with Jessica's previous material - and in particular the majestic 'Even In Silence', released alongside the first Godspeed album on Kranky in 1998 - will know what to expect, with the contribution from Pearce in truth failing to add very much. For the uninitiated, it's an uncomplicated but effective (and affecting) end product, with ethereal vocals layered over a space-rock/white noise soundtrack. Apparently a continuing project rather than a one-off, this is a partnership that could see Bailiff's material explore new avenues, whereas this first effort is little more than another JB album - which is still welcome, of course...

Andy Slocombe
March-April 2004

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