As they say, life is full of surprises. In early 2004, I was contacted by Sally Ellyson, a researcher working on a Court TV documentary about the Hossencofft case (the documentary was destined to become the premier episode of Court TV's new program, "The Investigators"). In our subsequent contacts, I learned that Ms. Ellyson is a lead singer for the group Hem. Curious, I tracked down the sounds of Hem and discovered a fantastic, unique blend of instruments and a truly captivating voice, all wrapped around a folk core. Turns out Hem's CD, Rabbit Songs, received a stellar review from Rolling Stone: "Rabbit Songs is sophisticated, sexy and gorgeous -- a gentle mix of country and folk music that makes for exquisite acoustic pop. Dan Messe's soft compositions feature eight pieces -- which on some songs grows to sixteen -- interweaving piano, mandolin, pedal steel and violin without sounding cluttered. In fact, one of Rabbit Songs' major achievements lies in its inspired, understated arrangements. But, make no mistake, this New York City band's most attractive feature is lead singer Sally Ellyson, whose voice combines the tradition of American roots music with the pipes and delicacy of a lounge singer. Instead of sounding stale singing someone else's lyrics, Ellyson enlivens Messe's lovesick songs. "But someday when my heart exhales/I'll tell you everything/These sweet words spilling all about us/I'll say please, please be with me," she sings on the addictive "Stupid Mouth Shut." As for the other fifteen, the tracks range from sad lullabies ("When I Was Drinking") to upbeat bluegrass ("The Cuckoo") to quiet anthems ("Night Like a River"). Rabbit Songs typifies musical elegance, a passionate and beautiful folk-pop record. (BENJAMIN FRIEDLAND/ROLLING STONE)." You can learn more about Hem and listen to songs from the Rabbit Songs CD at the group's Web site. To order Rabbit Songs, click here. Return to markhorner.com