This disc arrived in a strong batch of US female singer/songwriter discs, and it immediately stood out on first listen, and further plays over the past month or so have proved it to be an excellent and rewarding album.
Although twice a finalist at the Kerrville Folk Festival, and successful in the 90s as one half of a duo with Stan Moeller, this is her debut solo album, and as her past musical experience suggests this is a confident and accomplished collection.
The most striking aspect of the disc is her voice, it’s clear, sweet and versatile, and although there are identifiable similarities in vocal style to Shawn Colvin and Dar Williams, she has her own distinct sound that is instantly engaging, and very easy to listen to.
The excellent vocals are complimented by the quality of the arrangements; this is one of the most well crafted self released albums we’ve heard, it’s not that it’s full of exotic instrumentation, this is fairly standard singer/songwriter territory (guitars, piano, cello etc), but the overall sound is exceptionally good, the care and attention lavished on the arrangements is obvious – it’s detailed without being overly fussy and the vocals are never lost in a complex mix.
‘I Can See the Rain’ is the obvious standout, a very easy on the ears melodically strong number with instant appeal that’s well suited to radio play, but this is a disc with strength across all the tracks, from simple acoustic ballads (‘You Save Me’) through to up-tempo songs (‘Nothing’s Wrong’).
‘Through the Shadows’ is a classic American singer/songwriter disc – melodically strong and lyrically intelligent contemporary folk music; anyone interested in this style of singer/songwriters (especially Williams, McKenna, Colvin) will find much to enjoy here.

£13.49