We featured Diane’s previous, self-released album ‘These are the Roots’ about 18 months ago, and it’s still an album we really enjoy, it’s a lovely, unassuming singer/songwriter disc that’s full of quality; the songs, musicians and performances are all first class. ‘Paintbrush’ picks up where previous album left off, but it’s a little more musically expansive and dynamic, adding more instrumentation and styles, and it provides a rounded and complete listening experience.
She’s a great songwriter, the melodies always flow well, and her phrasing is natural but really individual, and it manages to focus the listener on the emotions and narratives in the lyrics.
This is a musically rich disc, the instrumentation is varied but really discreet; acoustic guitar, accordion, fiddle, mandolin and dobro are amongst the instruments providing the subtle backdrop for Diane’s pure and clear voice.
The whole of ‘Paintbrush’ is a showcase for her obvious talents, but it’s two tracks in the middle that really shine, ‘Kathleen’ and ‘It Grew in Front of Me’ are both truly beautiful songs with outstanding lyrics and melodies.
The 11 songs are mostly originals, but include a simple cover of Dave Carter & Tracy Grammer’s ‘Gentle Soldier of My Soul’ which suits the album perfectly, providing a good change of pace and feel.
Like it’s predecessor ‘Paintbrush’ is an unassuming yet hugely impressive album, and should be on the list for all fans of acoustic singer/songwriters. 

£13.49