Some of the albums that come through our doors require time and application from the listener to really appreciate their charms, ‘Diamonds in the Dark’ isn’t one of them – from the opening strains of ‘The Day We Met’ it’s obvious that this is a collection that’s immediate, melodic and enjoyable throughout.
Falling somewhere between roots, country, folk and rock this album is an eclectic mix that compares to the output of label-mate James McMurtry in that it’s tightly crafted and not bound by genre conventions, but will inevitably be clumsily grouped under ‘Country’.
Boston based Sarah has the presence and voice to carry her band through this musical adventure, and moves from ballad to full on guitar rock with ease. Her vocals are strong and firm, sounding very similar to Lori McKenna on the slower, quieter numbers, but turning in powerhouse vocals on the louder band tracks.
The Broken Singles (bass, electric guitar, pedal steel, drums) are excellent musicians and are joined throughout the album by a small number of additional musicians who add fiddle, pedal steel and piano to the occasional song.
The 40+ minutes pass by in a flash and there’s no filler amongst the 12 songs, and there are a good number of highlights across the wide range of styles; ‘Around 9’ is a beautifully performed ballad, ‘Stop and Think It Over’ is a jangly guitar piece of pop that could easily fit on a Kennedy’s album, and ‘The Day We Met’ is the perfect opener that sets the pace and standard for the disc.
’Diamonds in the Dark’ is an album that deserves to be a huge success, strong vocals and songs, a great band and a real feeling of fun throughout. Very highly recommended.

Track Listing
1 The Day We Met
2 Come Back To Me
3 Stop And Think It Over
4 Around 9
5 Lonely Town Of Love
6 False Eyelashes
7 Modern Trick
8 Belle Of The Bar
9 Open Up Your Back Door
10 Lord Only Knows
11 Diablito
12 Blind Love

£13.49