CoC : Diamanda Galas - La Serpenta Canta : Review

Diamanda Galas - _La Serpenta Canta_
(Mute, 2003)
by: Xander Hoose (10 out of 10)

Those of you who know Diamanda Galas will probably know that she is one of the most extreme musicians of our time. If you think Deicide, Broken Hope and Burzum are evil and extreme, do yourself a favour and pick up a copy of Galas' _Litanies of Satan_. She has been adorned by artists ranging from Marilyn Manson to Nick Cave and continues to influence many songwriters. Her voice is unique; alternating dark low growls with ear-piercing shrieks, yet with such splendor and expertise, her voice is her main instrument with the piano only providing the background to her twisted and insane tales. _La Serpenta Canta_, Diamanda Galas' thirteenth album, is a live recording of one of her finest tours. On this double album, you'll find renditions of Ornette Coleman's "Lonely Woman", Hank Williams "I'm So Lonely I Could Cry", Screaming Jay Hawkins's "I Put a Spell on You", John Lee Hooker's "Burning Hell" and many, many more. Never have such famous songs sounded so barren, so desolate, so emotion-laden; _La Serpenta Canta_ is highly addictive. Once you've been mesmerized by Diamanda's vocals, it's impossible to let go and step out. If you're a fan of Diamanda Galas, there's no question you should be buying _La Serpenta Canta_ right away. For those of you who are still unaware of what good music is really about, give this album a try. You might find yourself just as hooked as I am.

Contact: http://www.diamandagalas.com

(article published 13/12/2003)