"I went into the studio to make a World Music album with dance grooves. Two years later, we walked out with a work of art. It's been a journey!"

The album is Lotus, the self-titled debut album created by Alex Edenborough, Jimmy Harry and a slew of guest musicians. The quote is from writer/producer Harry, offering a fair assessment of one of the most engaging albums of the year. Lotus is a seamless blend of Southeast Asian music with contemporary urban beats, sensual grooves and heavenly vocals infused with the mystical sounds of Balinese paradise.

"Balinese Gamelan is one of my favorite forms of music from around the world," Harry notes. "But western audience have had little exposure to it, and I wanted to change that." British singer Alex Edenborough's sultry vocals drift through the gamelan sounds, lifting the listener above everyday reality. It's an album for living, loving...or just chilling.

Harry met British singer Edenborough at a composer's retreat. He was struck by the angelic quality of her voice. "She was perfect for what I had in mind." Two years of production went into creating Lotus, which blends just the right amount of Balinese influences with the most charming and memorable songs. Not just an ambient collection, Lotus includes at least three potential pop hits, "Within Or Without You" (the first dance remix that will be released), "Never Knew What Love Meant" and "You Are My Heaven."

raSa Music founder Donna D'Cruz says, "Lotus is a transcendental experience because while the groove is totally fresh and hip, it's also soothing. It's instantly transporting."

Harry, no newcomer to musical innovation, is world-wise in his background and experience. American by birth, Harry lived in both England and The Netherlands while growing up. He has written songs selling over seven million albums, and has produced such diverse projects as Ru Paul, Kylie Minogue, NC171, Pure Sugar and Rozalla, as well as film and television. He's had top-selling singles in Australia, the United Kingdom, Canada, France, Thailand, Taiwan and the Philippines.