Reviewed by Robin Thompson

This is an album that has already reached platinum status so whatever is now written about this album, its popularity has already been established. It is a collection of 14 original studio songs, originally released in 2000, which are based around Isla's observances of life, many of which are very frank in their honesty. "Love Me Tonight", a song demanding intimacy from a neglectful husband, is perhaps one of the best illustrations of this. It is a song that also stands out as being more of a rock 'n' roll number than the rest, which for the most part are laid back and acoustically driven. The well sung duet with Johnny McEvoy, "Partners In Rhyme" starts off proceedings well, even if the title is decidedly corny. With the exception of the aforementioned uptempo number, the album doesn't really move away from where it starts. It's performed beautifully and produced sympathetically, and all the necessary neo country elements are present, but I found I was still waiting for that one spark that would make me sit up and take notice. Perhaps in doing what you expect it to, it is too shackled and fettered. Quite clearly though, MOR country fans love it.

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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