Reviewed by Lins Honeyman

American-born and now Ireland-based singer/songwriter Beki Hemingway has once again teamed up with her guitarist/producer husband Randy Kerkman for an album of well-crafted songs that cover a range of subjects, situations and styles. With one of those classic female voices that seems to sit somewhere between Bonnie Raitt and Suzanne Vega, Hemingway breathes life and expression into a collection of simply top notch tunes that demand repeat play and stick around in the mind long after the last track finishes. Proceedings kick off in new country fashion with "Two More Hills" - a song of encouragement for those on the Christian journey - whilst the soulful "My World Is Out There" charts a substantial change of direction in the singer's life to good effect. Hemingway's skill at offering up a fine line in heartache and break up songs is showcased in the likes of "Anyone But You" and the clever "Not Excused" whilst "Is This All" and "The Shape You Left Me In" tackle tougher times with integrity and lyrical poise. The simply incredible "Tourist" - inspired by a recent visit to the Auchwitz-Birkenau concentration camp museum and featuring a cameo from Duke Special on harmonies - is a stunning piece of craftsmanship and is one of the many highlights on this exemplary release.

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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