An email randomly popped into my inbox posing the question: Elsiane...Next Bjork? After checking out the Canadian outfit's debut album, Hybrid, and seeing the band live at the El Rey last night, I consider that statement to be somewhat of an insult. Though their talent quite possibly equals that of the quirky Icelandic princess, Elsiane's music is far less annoying (admit it, no matter how much you love Bjork, her stuff can be bjollocks at times).

Elsiane consist of chanteuse Elsieanne Caplette and drummer Stephane Sotto. Live, the duo are augmented by Jeff Feldman (electric double bass/keyboards) and Philippe Look (guitar/keyboards). Caplette's ethereal voice is both breathy and breathtaking. Soaring over the band's shadowy soundscapes with ease and control, she uses her body to create unique natural vocal effects.

Musically Elsiane carry the torch of downtempo bands like Portishead, Morcheeba and Massive Attack, but they're no mere imitators, having a warmth, depth and fidelity all their own. Caplette, a self-taught classical musician, composed and arranged the album's signature lush strings, which were laid down with a little help from legendary producer Bob Ezrin (Pink Floyd's The Wall).

Check out "Vaporous," the lead song from Hybrid below.