Angie Foster: Press

If Sarah McLachlan ever gets around to reviving Lilith Fair, someone should slip her Angie Foster’s number. On her eight-song self-titled debut, Foster delivers the goods, playing piano and singing songs of heartache and heartbreak in a bewitchingly beautiful voice that reminds one of the mythical Siren, whose beguiling vocalisms distracted sailors from their voyages. The music is folk with a light dash of Americana, confidently performed by a skilled group of musicians whose ranks include a mandolin player, a violinist and a cellist. The strings heighten the desperate yearning of “Waiting,” which expresses longing for an absent lover whose promises have not been kept. “Not Quite” finds Foster feeling inadequate and wishing to be someone else (“Slip into her skin and see my life begin”). The dense guitar and heavy drums of “I Want You to Stay” threaten to shroud the verses, but the sentiment of the chorus cuts through the musical fog like a just-sharpened Ginsu. After this bombast, the tranquil yet empowering 9-11 themed “Never Forget” is a dry bus stop in a rainstorm. Foster scores a huge track five knockout with the staggeringly gorgeous “Can I Wish It For You,” a song which would have benefited McLachlan greatly in her recent comeback bid. Percussion aficionados should also take note of the stellar cymbal work on this track. Speaking of subtle musical touches, bass devotees will appreciate the brief four-string flourish in “You Lose,” the second of a hopeful trio of upbeat numbers that round out this record and seem to suggest that Foster has emerged from her sorrows stronger and more capable of dealing with what lies ahead.

Angie's music is mainstream Pop/Rock at the crossroads between Sarah McLachlan and Sara Bareilles. Her voice is smooth and present like Sarah McLachlan. Her songwriting is current with unexpected twists and turns like Sara Bareilles. The well-produced arrangements are big and fun, paying homage at times to superstars from the 80s like Pat Benetar and Journey. Once her melodies hit the ear, they immediately take up residence in the mind and heart. This Portland, OR singer/songwriter has the complete package.