Chimera
Delerium’s Rhys Fulber and Bill Leeb lighten up their sound onChimera, as the darker fixations of early records likeMorpheusretreat yet further into the background. AfterSarah McLachlan’s lovely turn on the single "Silence," and the massive success of 1997’sKarma, the duo have dutifully embraced their winning combination of ethereal female vocalists and ambient dance-pop. OnChimera, the formula yields a few worthy singles, such as the limber and catchy "Love" and "Run For It" (featuringSixpence None The Richer’s Leigh Nash). And while the record too often settles for disposable, bland pop ("Touched" and "Magic," for instance), it also delivers potent hooks and moments of inspiration that will keep the band’s fan base happy. --Matthew Cooke