Reviewed by Lins Honeyman

Canadian songstress Kerri Woelke has conquered that difficult second album syndrome in an accomplished follow up to her 2007 eponymous debut. Similarities to Norah Jones aside, Woelke is in laid back mode throughout this organic collection of mostly self-penned songs which tend to draw on the theme of loneliness as demonstrated in the likes of the tender "Sweep" and the song of failed love "Lame On Me". Elsewhere, Woelke's faith shines through in the upbeat country gospel of "By The Mark" but what makes this release really stand out are the inspired moments of musical genius that intermittently occur. For instance, Ron Halldorson's pedal steel break in "On My Way (To You)" and the banjitar solo from Brian James on the charming "Take A Chance" shift proceedings up a gear whilst the aforementioned "Lame On Me" boasts a bass clarinet, ukelele and a surprise appearance from a gang of male backing singers for good measure. Compared to the poetry contained in the remainder of the album, only the somewhat banal song of housewife angst "The Mom Song" misses the mark. Nonetheless, this is an astonishing release from an exceptionally gifted artist.

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