Reviewed by Doug Holland

Helen Crathorne has some impressive names on her CV, having worked as singer/songwriter and session singer for amongst others Herbie Armstrong, Nick Beggs, Paul Field, Carrie and David Grant, Eric Clapton and Cliff Richard. This solo album is exactly that, with all 11 tracks (43 minutes of music in total) written by her, featuring only her voice and with her piano contributing the majority of the music. The collection is something of a puzzle when listed to from beginning to end; without doubt there are some lovely reflective songs ("Being Sure", "Thirsty" and the title track in particular) that most of us will be able to relate to but equally there are some the meaning of which is virtually impenetrable (for instance, "Open Up" and "Wild At Heart") to somebody not familiar with events that have taken place in the singer's life - one has to assume they continue the general theme of the album which is the presence and hope of God through everyday trials and tribulations. Her voice is delightful with a good range and the musical arrangements are always interesting and varied (definite leanings towards jazz here, with some entertaining woodwind). The absence of cliché is a feature of the words and music, and if you don't mind too much singing words you don't quite understand then the songs become accessible and the album very enjoyable.

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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