Zipless

by Tom DemalonWorking with husband and longtime collaborator Peter Daou, Zipless is the poetry of Erica Jong set to music (all of it played, arranged, and produced by Peter Daou, who happens to be Jong's nephew). Musically, the arrangements are often sparse and ambient, giving Vanessa Daou plenty of space to deliver the words in either spoken form or with slinky, seductive vocals. It's an approach that is a almost flawless, allowing the listener to drift along as Vanessa breathily offers up the provocative memories on "Sunday Afternoons" or weaves her way through the hushed, evocative "My Love Is Too Much." Jong herself gives the reading of "Smoke," with some vocals added by Vanessa. Other noteworthy tracks include the inviting opener "The Long Tunnel of Wanting You," which simmers with an airy, percussive melody, and the hypnotic, wispy "Near the Black Forest." Zipless is a breathtaking trip that can barely contain its own sensuality.