Reviewed by Giles D Morrison

  A different facet has been revealed each time I’ve listened to this album.  There is a freshness and energy here, so that something new is heard in each track.  It’s a pleasure to hear an album where the production has a light touch and retains the character of the musicianship, rather than a mass-produced musical stereotype, with arrangements honed by live performance.  The album has been recorded simply, its foundations based on talented musicians; not least Anita’s piano playing.  The album is varied, demonstrating the wide range of musical styles which Anita has mastered, backed by a tight rhythm section.  These vary from ballads “God Doesn’t Change” and “Midnight” to “Time Is Not Enough”, rock with attitude, the funky “Devoid Of Speech” and ending with the solo “No Great Expectations” which would do Victoria Wood proud.  The range of styles is reminiscent of some of Joni Mitchell’s earlier recordings.  Anita is an accomplished pianist, mainly playing rhythm, but the occasional solos are very subtle, as at the end of “Midnight”.  Her voice is remarkably versatile, with a wonderful deep bluesy style on “Crushed”.  Likewise, “I Believe”, a piano solo with vocal harmony and acoustic guitar is exquisite.  Her first album, Anita has demonstrated her breadth of songwriting, singing and playing ability and warm sense of humour.  Her music has a very human element, recognising our frailties.  This warmth is expressed in the liner notes.  “I just realise what’s important in this life is you and me.  The rest can wait and see.”  Don’t wait too long!

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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