Bleep

Julia Kent's 'Character' is an album with a cello at its heart. The instruments' familiar, haunting strings resonating with all the grandeur of the concert hall. It's Modern Classical composition at its finest, but there's also a great depth of feeling and sincerity at play here, making this music for everyone and any setting.

Having played for Antony and the Johnsons and with two well-received solo albums under her belt, Julia Kent knows how to get the most out of her instrument. ‘Character’ is the work of a technically proficient musician with a huge sensitivity for atmosphere. But, though made with real mastery, its still DIY. Kent plays every sound on the record herself, looping her cello, filling space and layering textures and moody strings. The result is bewitching. Strings sigh and swirl, bittersweet feelings running high. The cello is personal for Kent, her voice, and she fills it with all the emotion she can, making for one of the most beautiful and distinct albums we’ve come across this year.