Antony Hegarty’s voice is still on the same form that propelled the Mercury Award winning album I am a Bird Now into iconic status. Although detractors may have been expecting a break away from the deep and resonant emotional expression that Hegarty channels through his unique voice, Hegarty has instead gone deeper. This albums cover features the now 102 year old Japanese Butoh dancer Kazuo Ohno and the record is also dedicated to him. This album may not have the wide appeal of I am a Bird Now because of it’s greater focus on intricate construction and subtle shifts, much like the interpretive dance of Ohno, or the compositional style of the New York avant-garde theatres that Antony learned much from. His exploration of the capabiities of his voice is undoubtedly an inner world and sanctuary that only a few can truly share. Piano driven songs like ‘Another World’ and ‘Epilepsy is Dancing’ recall his most melancholic and upbeat songs respectively, yet The Crying Light is a strong break from previous albums. alongside the characteristically rich piano with string accompaniment, wood flutes, electric guitar and cinematic arrangements frame the album.
