Rich with musical influences from around the globe, Seattle-based singer/songwriter Gayle Cloud recently released her latest CD Many Waters—a compilation of eclectic pop, folk and sensual world beat songs.  Fans say Gayle’s sound is reminiscent of Pink Martini, Zero 7, Portishead, Loreena McKennit and Kate Bush, describing her music as “strong, soulful and poetic.”  Brian Ball of WomensRadio Network writes that: “The masterful production, artistry and songwriting of ‘Golden Wings’ is reason enough to pick up a copy of Many Waters,” and “Gayle’s ethereal and otherworldly vocals pierce the listener straight through the heart.”

Showcasing a diversity of genres, Many Waters’ unifying theme is about gathering courage in the face of life’s challenges.  The title track “Many Waters” evokes a dream place where one can escape life’s stresses and be immersed in a state of calm and beauty.  “Golden Wings” tells the story of a young woman leaving home for the first time and beginning the discovery of who she is in the world.  The hypnotic “Bombay,” layered with Eastern Indian percussion, captures the notion of finding a liberated place within after a long period of emotional hardship.  Then in a break from the spiritual and exotic, “Turn Around Loverboy” is an edgier pop/rock influenced tune in the mold of “Hit The Road, Jack,” with a woman reclaiming power after a relationship gone bad.

Gayle’s voice garners as many accolades as her songwriting:  “clear and crystalline,” “haunting,” “smooth and silky,” “could listen forever,” and “the voice is like a female priest,” write her many fans.

Gayle views her place in the world as a fellow traveler, healer and voice of certain universal experiences.  “Musicians and songwriters can play a fascinating role in life,” says Gayle. “I think we are often able to express in a magical way some of life’s intense experiences for other people.  I love writing songs that help fuel people’s desires and courage in their own lives.”

Gayle’s previous CD Second Chance received worldwide radio and Internet airplay and was awarded the WomensRadio 2007    No. 1 Music Review Award in the singer/songwriter category.  The song “Talaky” earned a 2006 “Honorable Mention” from the London-based artist development group “We Are Listening.”  Many Waters is following suit with numerous positive reviews (see  blog), a top-10 position for “Golden Wings” on Women of Substance radio and she is a featured artist this month on KXBG birthofradio.

Gayle launched her performing career and love of world music in Paris, where she landed a regular gig at Jokko’s in Paris, a club that was partially owned by celebrated Senegalese musician Youssou N’Dour.  After five years in the city of romance, she found equal success in New York City, performing in venues like the CBGB Gallery and the Cutting Room.  In NYC, Gayle also developed her unique creative relationship with NYC-based producer John Pahmer, who produced Second Chance as well as her current CD Many Waters. Gayle has now found her way back home to Seattle, a cosmopolitan town she considers her portal to the world.  Many of her gigs these days are in Seattle’s intimate venues and with her full band at the Ethnic Cultural Center Theatre on the University of Washington campus—where she recently held her CD launch party for Many Waters.