Can't make my mind up with this album, musically first class, but to be sexists it sounds too "Girlie" for my liking, just me! Rating of 2.50. | Jo Harman has a voice that simply gives you goosebumps. I love the way she so subtly emotes; sure, she can let rip, but it's the restraint and control she uses that fully conveys the emotional impact of her songs. Ah, the songs! There are broad brushstrokes of gospel, soul and rhythm and blues all over this album, but it's the quality of the songwriting that makes it such a keeper. Each subsequent play brings forth a different nuance in her voice and, indeed the songs. And there are some wonderful production touches; in Fragile, when the piano just drops away leaving her voice to carry on accompanied, is a masterstroke of economy. I can't wait for her next release and I would dearly love to see her live. I guess I'll just have to make do with YouTube for the time being. (Philip Couch on Amazon Review) |