Even though the prestigious Shortlist Prize (awarded to the best album that has sold less than 500,000 units in the U.S.) is in its infancy, it is quickly becoming the most sought after praise around. The prize, judged by peers in the music industry, has so far gone to Iceland's Sigur Ros (Agaetis Byrjun) and N.E.R.D. for their genre busting 'In Search Of'. Joining this small but impressive list is Ireland's Damien Rice and his startling debut 'O'.

A soul bearing collection of 10 fascinating songs, 'O' is surely the beginning of a promising career from this little known talent. Coming off as a Celtic Ryan Adams (during his Heartbreaker period) and with a voice that is at times similar to Natalie Merchant, Rice pulls no punches in telling us his sorrow. In 'Cheers Darlin' he plays the part of the gutted 'could've been' at a wedding telling the Bride his feelings: "What am I darlin? A whisper in your ear? A piece of your cake?" Elton John's 'Kiss The Bride' this is not.

But Rice knows better then to be bitter all the time. 'Amie' acts as a central piece to the album with an inspirational classical music backing (helmed by Film Score magnifico David Arnold) that offers some rays of sunshine in Rice's otherwise bleak outlook. In a perfect world, 'Amie' would appear in a blockbuster Broadway musical.

Helping round out Rice's Celtic leanings are some strong backing musicians. Cellist Vyvienne Long brings a mournful edge to Rice's songs of heartbreak whilst Lisa Hannigan's beautiful voice is a nice balance to many of the tracks including, 'Older Chests', 'Cold Water' and even taking the first lead on the lone rocker 'I Remember'.

Ending with a Finnish operatic climax on 'Eskimo', 'O' leaves you with no doubt that Rice is willing to push the boundaries of contemporary music. Keep your eye on this guy.