Reviewed by Paul Kerslake

This is Brooke's debut LP following on from her EP 'Fresh Pair Of Eyes'. Classically trained, her piano playing drives the whole album. Sounding like a cross between Kate Bush and Regina Spektor, this is a quirky and beautiful collection of songs. Brooke possesses a delicate voice that earnestly conveys the emotion within the songs. And the songs are exquisite, with deft lyrical content, and Brooke's classical background used to good effect, with each song being constructed as a miniature concert piece. The piano remains central to it all, with her voice sometimes even being secondary to her playing. Supporting this are a variety of instruments including strings, French horns, harmonica and whistles. The title track is a highlight, starting incredibly quietly and building to a dramatic crescendo. Brooke juxtaposes these mini concertos with straight ahead, intelligent pop songs, still keeping the piano and classical influence at the core. The closing track, "Come Love, See My Hands", is a 12 minute overture that showcases all of the properties that make Brooke so distinct with marvellous piano work and heartfelt vocals. A delicate and confident masterpiece.

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