Drawing primarily on the music of Turkey and the middle east, the album is lush, beautiful and haunting, much like the best of McKennitt's past work. Her lovely voice is on display throughout the album, especially on tracks like "Caravanserai", "Penelope's Song" and "The English Ladye And The Knight." Another standout track is the totally engaging instrumental "Kecharitomene" and the spellbinding "The Gates Of Istanbul."

An Ancient Muse is another fine example why the enigma named Loreena McKennitt continues to enchant and fire the imaginations of listeners worldwide. According to her web site, a North American tour is being planned for the Spring of 2007.

Written by Dan Reed.