artist:	Dot Allison
album:	Afterglow
format:	CD
label:	Arista Records
release year:	2003
performance:	8
sound	7
reviewed by:	Jerry Del Colliano

Dot Allison, formerly the front person of One Dove, makes her solo debut with "Afterglow." Allison was raised in Scotland, playing the piano. She went on to join the post Acid House music scene in the UK. Allison’s new release "Afterglow" features the transcendental electronica that made her a hit in the UK. Allison collaborates with Death In Vegas frontman Richard Fearless and songwriter Hal David (of Bacharach fame).

The album opens with the drum beats of "Colour Me", Allison’s sultry, ethereal vocals grab you and pull you in. The album continues with "Tomorrow Never Comes" Allison’s floating voice with the mellow electronica background are truly transcendental. The album is not purely soft and easy as the edgy "Close Your Eyes" provides a strong rhythm, but does not overpower the mood. The track uses a juxtaposition of Allison’s voice, drums and synthesizer effects to surround the listener with a groove that soothes but does not bore.

The album manages to provide mellow synthesizer music that is involving, a rare commodity. The effects range from various sampling and looping effects to some that seem to be from an underwater dream sequence. This synthesizer background is built upon with a voice that can only be described as ethereal and collaborations with a variety of different influences. This combination, works rather well to make listening to "Afterglow" surreal experience.

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