Reviewed by Jon Cooper

American music college graduate Rachel Taylor blends folk and traditional country sounds, giving them a dark twist in the process, in the way that Richard Hawley has done so successfully in the past. The influence of gloom-loving rockers Black Rebel Motorcycle Club (guitarist Peter Hayes produced this release) is evident throughout, particularly on the standout title track, which could've been lifted from their bluesy 'Howl'. "The one consolation that comes with a price/The human condition is just part of life," sings Taylor, summarising the lyrical themes which play out over this collection of songs. Prior to that, opener "Broken" is a gentle touch from a feather, fading out to expose the simple, child-like piano line that has been chiming away playfully throughout. "Satisfy" shuffles along like a road-weary cowboy, the menacing chord progression building with apocalyptic layers of guitar and synths that give way to a haunting, post-gunfight outro which disappears like a hero into a frontier-land sunset. Sparse closing track "You Might Be Surprised" sees Taylor's rich voice taking centre stage, the swirling backing vocals and subtle percussion creating a sense of drifting away to Paradise on a cloud. Divine.

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