‘Façade’ marks Doris Brendel’s 5th home recorded album in 4 years, all of which are side projects to Brendel and Dunham’s more serious band productions and whose most recent album ‘Mass Hysteria’ received rave reviews. The daughter of famed classical pianist Alfred Brendel, Doris’ distinctive vocals were the driving force behind 1990s alt-rockers The Violet Hour, who were signed to Sony when they released their now revered, classic album ‘The Fire Sermon’ in 1991. Having become a firm fixture in the Rock and Prog scene, Brendel’s ‘Acoustic’ albums are a complete diversion from her regular fare and ‘expect the unexpected’ has never been more relevant. Even the word ‘acoustic’ is misleading, though acoustic guitars are heavily featured, Chris Tortoioli’s production and additional instrumentation brings it close to band territory at times. ‘Façade’ is Brendel’s second concept album. ‘Star Bright’s’ celestial collection whet her appetite for another thematic album, this time honing in on peoples’ exterior, our clothes, our appearance, to analyse what it says about us. What it enhances or hides. Each song is a window on someone’s life, from the ridiculous ‘Lashes’, the menacing ‘Leather Belt’ to the achingly sad title track ‘Façade’, and everything in between. Brendel has worked with some notable people over the years, including Alvin Lee, Gary Moore, Sam Brown, Joe Brown, Herbie Flowers, and has toured with Marillion as well as Nils Lofgren, John Farnham and Steve Marriott. Over the last few years she has toured extensively with Wishbone Ash and Fish, also singing backing vocals for Fish and his latest album ‘Weltschmerz’ released last year. Doris Brendel is one of the most accomplished and exciting live singers on the scene. Apart from first-class musicianship, expect outlandish steam-punk costumes and even laser gloves. The full band are hoping to resume touring with Fish in 2024 and are appearing at various festivals this year. Brendel is also playing a number of acoustic duos with producer and guitarist Lee Dunham. Another new band album is expected later this year. This album is available on CD and download. There is also a limited edition pull-out wallet for the CD. This album is only available on her website www.dorisbrendel.com