Backed her Blue Moon Orchestra this new album is a collection of 'torch songs' (def. sentimental songs, often where the singer laments unrequited love), but rather than picking an array of well known songs she's chosen an eclectic selection from a wide range of writers.
If you put your preconceptions of sentimental love songs behind you then this disc will really surprise you - the songs are beautifully written and the production is thankfully restrained, with piano, acoustic guitar and, of course, some sweeping strings melding together to produce the perfect backdrop for these ballads.
The highlight is Nanci's voice, throughout the 11 songs she puts real feeling into the lyrics without ever over emoting, and in the songs I knew prior to hearing the disc she brings a different emphasis to the lyrics purely in her manner of delivery.
While the whole album could wash over you with little effort required from the listener, those willing to delve into the disc will find a collection of superb songs that are sympathetically peformed and presented.....it's not for everyone but those who pick this up will find much to enjoy.

Track listing
1 When I Dream (Sandy Mason)
2 If These Walls Could Speak (Jimmy Webb)
3 Ruby's Arms (Tom Waits)
4 Never be the Sun (Donagh Long)
5 Bluer than Blue (Charles Goodrum)
6 Brave Companion of the Road (Nanci Griffith)
7 Grapefruit Moon (Tom Waits)
8 Please Call Me, Baby (Tom Waits)
9 Late Night Grande Hotel (Nanci Griffith)
10 In the Wee Small Hours of the Morning (Mann/Hilliard)
11 Drops from the Faucet (Frank Christian)

£13.49