D. Keating | Bristow, VA United States | 10/30/2001
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This album put Sarah McLachlan in the music spotlight that she definitely deserves. I bought this album because I liked her previous one, Fumbling Towards Ecstasy, so much. Surfacing shows her continuing growth as a song writer and performer. Simply put, she is one of the best female artists making music these days. Most people will be familiar with the singles "Building a Mystery" and "Angel", both which are strong tracks. But, probably the most impressive songs on the album are "Sweet Surrender", "Adia", and "Witness". Overall, the sound quality of this CD is excellent. I like to listen to this album with headphones to get the full impact of the songs.I highly recommend this album to any Sarah Mclachlan fun, if you do not already own it. If you are unfamiliar with her work, I would use this CD as a great starting point."
"Surfacing" is a stellar, heartfelt work of art!
02/13/1999
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Originally, I purchased this album, without knowing much about the artist, because I really liked the song "Building A Mystery. I played "Building A Mystery" over and over for a long time, then I listened to the rest of the disc and was astounded. Every song on "Surfacing" is thoughtfully written and uniquely beautiful. Personally, I believe that the best song on this CD is track #2, "I Love You". With its unique instrumentation, superb acoustic guitar solo (by Sarah), and expressively sung lyrics which I could personally identify with, it quickly became my favorite song. I have played it so many times, I can't believe that the CD isn't worn out! Each track is pleasantly different and has its own charm. "Sweet Surrender" is upbeat and inspiring, while "Angel" is tranquil and meditative. The calming instrumental, "Last Dance" is the perfect choice for the concluding track. "Surfacing" is the one CD I cannot live without. I am now a huge fan of Sarah and have gone on to purchase her older CDs. I love every one of them, but "Surfacing" is the absolute best. It deserves nothing short of five stars. If you don't already own a copy of this collection of musical poetry, do yourself a favor and go order one now! I promise that you will not be disappointed!"
Serious music from a noted female artist
PARTHO ROY | Tampa, Florida USA | 09/18/2002
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Nowadays, the radio plays so many songs by women artists dressed like prostitutes, crooning (rather off-key) about how they like men, like to tease men, like to break hearts, etc., etc. But there exists a different class of female vocalists out there, with a more independent message--the Lillith Fair set, if you will--and Sarah MacLachlan is squarely at the forefront. With her CD "Surfacing," many longtime fans may feel that she has gone too mainstream or too 'radio-friendly.' Oftentimes artists will have to do this to increase sales. Look at how much New Age recluse Enya has popularized her once arcane, Celtic-spirited style. However, I think that Ms. MacLachlan has lost little if any of her iconic individuality with this release. It's not as if Delilah had slain Sappho, so to speak. Of course, we cannot keep Sugar Ray fans from singing along when "Building a Mystery" or "Angel" plays on the radio. But there is enough depth to her lyrics, as always, to keep the more emotionally/soulfully attuned listener satisfied. In songs like "Adia," for example, MacLachlan makes the most of her gifted voice range and lyrical sensitivity. I feel that this is one of her best recordings to date, and I look forward to more music of this kind."
Mysterious, invitingly dark and sad.
Jennifer Lee | San Jose, CA USA | 12/16/2001
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I have had this album for over three years now and I still listen to it avidly. This album has been inspirational and motivating but also depressing and calming. Sarah Mclaughlin's voice is hauting and seductive at the same time. She's toned and rich in emotion, getting it all right. Her melodies are easy to remember, though not particularly easy to sing along with. Her most popular songs on this album include "Building a Mystery", "Adia", "Angel" and "Sweet Surrender". This CD is enhanced meaning it has other information on it, I believe this includes a biography and discography of her. Her voice is rich and this album is as well. Her songs are well written and carefully executed, every song brings something new. Personally my favorite song on this album is "Black and White", it explores feelings on acceptance and societal views. If you read her lyrics they are very meaningful and not fluffy like many of the albums released. I would recommend this to people who enjoy Dido and the Cranberries. This works great with bubble baths or love. On a side note, the cover art and booklet included are beautiful. Very artsy and dark, matching and somehow deep. Cover art alone is worth it for me, it really reflects her style and the mood of this disc."