Reviewed by Lins Honeyman

Building on the success of her 2006 debut 'Like My Shadow', West Midlands-based singer/songwriter Beth Tysall's second album continues in the same rock-tinged mode. Released on her own Shekinah Records label, Tysall's voice is most definitely the star of the show and she rivals the likes of Joss Stone in terms of a vocal maturity that is beyond her tender 23 years. Add to the mix some steady production from Gav Richards and Dez Minto plus some strong song structures from Tysall and her writing partner Matthew Cotterill and the scene is set for a potentially great album. Tracks like the punchy "Mr Arrogant" and the opener "Make Me Happy" showcase her ability to rock out whilst the slower power ballad "I'm Still Here" - the first single taken from the album - keeps proceedings varied and fresh. Elsewhere, the quirky "Ideal Life" is a highlight and the album would have arguably benefited from a couple more in this vein to lighten its mostly introspective and sombre mood. Despite the great sound of this otherwise accomplished album, Tysall's lyrical style is a tad wordy and the fantastic message contained in songs such as the faith-referencing "Nearly There" and "Fall Over You" tends to get lost in the clutter. Nonetheless, a competent release from an artist who will go from strength to strength.

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.

Interested in reviewing music? Find out more here.