Reviewed by Stephen Luff

Lins, Cross Rhythms reviewer and singer/songwriter, presents both original and covers in homes on this 16 track collection. There are great songs here, including covers of Chuck Berry and Labi Siffre such as "You Never Can Tell" and "It Must Be Love", given the Lins treatment breathing new "roots life" into them. Without overdubs these living room recordings may sound a little raw but the enthusiasm and atmosphere is well captured. Of the self-penned songs, "Charles Atlas Where Are You Now" brought a smile to my face (will make sense if you are a certain age), but there are many gems here. Friends included here are Perthshire-based singer Morna Strachan, Glasgow singer/songwriter Bruce Cameron, double bassist and guitarist Andy McCully, percussionist Jon Assheton and singer/songwriter Michael McMillan. The only criticism here is the live recording can sound a little hollow, I suspect there was some 'mic sharing' as some voices/instruments are louder than others. Despite the above, this set will be enjoyed by the Scottish songsmith's supporters while being a good introduction to those yet to catch up on Perth, Scotland's best blues singer.

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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