Anna Reynolds' music defies definition, but it is exquisite. There is no doubt that its motifs are mellow and soothing, and, at times, brooding and melancholy. And yet, each song is an intellectual, as well as, an emotional experience. The lyrics never fell to tell a tale that is somehow anecdotal and yet philosophical, at once, personal and universal. From 'The Burdens of the Few,' an ode to her Marine son's commitment to his country and a tribute to every mother whose sons and daughters put themselves in harm's way for the cause of freedom, to 'The Two of You,' the personal story of the ravages of divorce on the bonds of devotion; in these songs, there is a classic country lilt that creates an authenticity that is undeniable…and uniquely American. Odd, in some way, that this should come from a woman who traveled half way around the world to adopt this country as her own when she was barely a teenager. The Eastern influence of her birthplace - Vietnam - seem evident in the strains of 'Disregard the Angels,' the title track, and 'A Sad Secret, The Long Walk Home.' Even though the lyrical content is about the sometimes harsh reality of Western society, Anna Reynolds' melodies somehow seem tinged with a blend of slightly exotic Eastern flavor. She also manage to accomplish more genre-bending with jazzy tunes like 'Beautiful Mistake,' and 'Starting to Be,' and the New-Age-esque 'Shadow in the Shade,' and 'Words.' There is no doubt that Anna elevates her lyrics to a position of importance that is unrivaled by many contemporary composers. This is not without some justification, and certainly is done with considerable effect…and affect. Anna Reynolds obviously believes in the depth of her feelings and the clarity of her perceptions, and she just might make a believer out of you. Absent the sentimentalities and lyrical flourishes that are consistent throughout Disregard the Angels, listeners might be disoriented by Anna's refusal to bow to the conventional forms and restrictions of defining music by the rules of a specific genre, but the gentle appeal of her style is seductive. True, you can't say what it is in two words, but you'll like Anna Reynolds' music.