Reviewed by Pauline Cooke

According to her website (www.sherriyoungward.com), this is the fourth album by this US singer/songwriter. It may be an overused term, but if I had to describe the album in one word, I would pick mellow. The music is wonderfully melodic, with a fairly stripped down selection of instruments giving a very acoustic feel. The lyrics come across very clearly; Sherri's voice reminded me strongly of Eva Cassidy, as did some of her guitar work, especially on "Nothing Like Before" and "Falling Down". The album opens with "All Who Are Weary", based on Matt.11:28-29, a very restful arrangement to start with. My particular favourite is "I'll Fly Away" which is a brilliantly upbeat song about flying home to God's celestial shore, ie, dying. Many of the lyrics have a story-like quality and deal with strong emotions; "Fist Full Of Stones" is particularly powerful. Sherri leads worship as well as doing concerts and the tracks "First Fire" and "Nothing Compares" have a strong worship feel. This album is uncomplicated yet profound, accessible and thought provoking. I can't wait to get my hands on the first three albums!

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