HAUNTING or pretentious? Get beyond the poor sequencing, the tremulous operatics and the deliberate gender shifts, and this is a wonderful set of songs which will endure.

Antony, Chichester born, lately resident of New York City, is a torch singer in the vein of Marc Almond. Seemingly avoiding any commercial considerations (but with devoted guest stars in tow) I Am A Bird Now is full of late-night ruminations, particularly the wonderful You Are My Sister (with Boy George).

The versatility and distinctiveness of the voice is this album's calling card, but anyone finding this offering too rich should be heartened by Fistful Of Love, which heralds the entrance of Antony the soul singer. A name set to soar.

Updated: 09:07 Thursday, April 28, 2005