Occasionally a disc arrives that's packaged in such a way that it demands you listen to it immediately - 'My Life of Crime' is one of those, and the distinctive artwork really sets the tone for the twelve songs that follow.
While it has its roots in the folk/pop camp, musically this is a really diverse album, ranging from the acoustic guitar and string based title track, to the full on, infectiously catchy rock of 'Crush'. Despite the variety on offer, the album sits together well as a collection of thematically related songs.
She's a skilful lyricist, and the eleven originals (the one cover is a great reading of The Beatles 'Run for Your Life') are wonderful insights into the lives of the characters in the songs. But the way she does this is distinct and individual, rather than introspective writing she broadens the canvas and leaves the listener interested in what has happened before the song picked the story up.
'My Life of Crime' is a bold and confident album, with a huge amount to offer both the casual and the more committed listener - it's full of hooks and strong lyrics, but also has some wonderfully subtle touches from the musicians involved. A great independent release. 

£13.49