Reviewed by Mike Rimmer

Since their debut album Loose Goose have centred on the exquisite voice and writing talents of Carolyn Stilwell. Again aided and abetted by a myriad of top players including Terl Bryant, Mike Haughton and Troy Donockley from lona, producer Sammy Horner, keyboard king David Lyon and a pair of D:boys! They help create a wonderful Celtic ambience over which Carolyn's voice floats to stunning effect. Sammy Horner is to be commended in the way he has helped to shape an overall sound which feels more coherent than LG's debut. His duet with Carolyn on "Rapunzel" is as incongruous as Nick Cave and Kylie Minogue but boy, does it work! Unusual and haunting and memorable. Elsewhere "Back To Avalon" is a re-release from their debut album and along with "Glastonbury Night", it marks an attempt to reach those who are searching in the fog of New Age for realities about life. "With Every Blessing" is the Sammy Horner tune, here given a totally new drifting ambience which washes over you. The closing cut "The Battle Of Evermore" should not be confused with the Led Zep track of the same name but instead looks at the return of Christ and the contrast in reaction to his return from those who know him and those who don't.

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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