Studio Diary
David Nuttycombe, Xyra and Eric Ulreich, Washington City Paper; Jul 7, 1999
Xyra & Verborgen:
The Frightening Beauty Sessions
'It is called "Cabaret Rock Nouveau," and it is the now sound of then. Or the then sound of now. Either way, it sounds terrif, and we love it. Adding strings and woodwinds to the classic rock lineup, XYRA & VERBORGEN create striking musical tableaux not usually heard in places like Jaxx or Blues Alley—though both venues have hosted the band. Backing diva Xyra's dramatic vocals are Andrew Cann (pianos, MIDIs, guitar), Fred Lieder (acoustic and electric cellos), Norm Thorne (drums, percussion), Don Stapleson (clarinets, flutes, saxophones), Larry Lawrence (fretless bass, MIDIs, sequencers), and Eric Ulreich (lead electric and classical guitar). This then is an account of their latest recording project, which will result in not one but two CDs—the EP Shadows of Light and the full-length Frightening Beauty!
Be not afraid of the beautiful noise that is Xyra & Verborgen!'
David Nuttycombe
(Photos by Craig Fitzpatrick, Catherine Farrell, Xyra, and Sandi Galle.)