Cordelia Stephens <http://www.cordeliastephens.com/> - Wide Awake Dream (Independently released CD, Pop)
Another smooth and satisfying collection of tunes from Brooklyn, New York-based singer/songwriter Cordelia Stephens. This talented lady's music sounds something like a cross between Suzanne Vega and Natalie Merchant, while at the same time never sound too much like either. This is a very professional sounding album, particularly when you consider the fact that it is an independent release. These songs are intelligent and resilient, and will surely stand up to many repeated spins. Ms. Stephens has a great resonant voice and she has a warm overall presence that comes through loud and clear in these tracks. Thirteen intriguing cuts that clock in at close to fifty-two minutes. Our initial favorites include "Wide Awake Dream," "Waiting," Time Takes Away," and "Forget Me Not, England." Nice, pensive thoughtful music with a conscience.
BabySue Review February 2012
Cordelia Stephens - Threshold (Independently released CD, Pop)
Nice, smooth, resonant, mid-tempo melodic pop from Cordelia Stephens. Rather than taking the bizarre artsy approach to music, Stephens is taking a more direct path...writing and recording smooth modern pop that could easily be appreciated by a wide cross section of fans. Cordelia cites Bonnie Raitt, Aimee Mann, and Gillian Welch as influences...and we can hear traces of all of these artists in her music. Threshold will probably be embraced first and foremost by those who are not impressed by confrontational music. Instead of pushing the limits of what music can be, this young artist seems content to simply express herself through conventional sounding music and lyrics...and on Threshold she succeeds admirably. Fourteen classy tunes here with the main focal point being Ms. Stephens' cool subdued voice. This lady can really sing. Our favorite cuts include "Threshold," "The Shapes of London," "Fine Line," and "Drive."