STYLE: Roots/Acoustic RATING OUR PRODUCT CODE: 734-3136 LABEL: Tollbooth Music FORMAT: CD Album ITEMS: 1
Reviewed by Mike Rimmer
I witnessed the launch party for this album in Birmingham and so my first taste of 'Permission' was to hear the songs played in a live setting. Live, Helen seems shy yet self-assured when she's singing. 'Permission' sees her finding her way as a singer, writing material from a Christian standpoint without having the pressure to always be trying to communicate a message. The result is a wonderful selection of songs which mix autobiography and fiction, and once I stopped trying to guess which were expressing Helen's life experiences, this became an intriguing, enjoyable album. But, then again, surely an angst-ridden post relationship song like "Stuff It" has to be poured out from a genuinely broken soul. She certainly sings it like she means it - an excellent performance Main working in an acoustic roots environment with real instruments - strings, accordion but few drums - "Lye-Di-Ly" is playful and light relief next to some of the passion expressed here. I love "Extremes" with its choppy rhythms matching the changing emotions expressed. In This context, "Helium" stands out for its ambience and alternative sounds - plenty of E Bow and vibe and drum loops. A certain highlight. Vocally, Helen manages to pull out all the slops, and isn't afraid to swing from vulnerable and lost to angry and indignant. A stunning performance! I even get the feeling that she enjoys messing with her audience by hiding herself in her words and leaving us guessing. If the current crop of female singer/songwriters are your bag, add Helen into your CD changer because you'll find she can look after herself!
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