Reviewed by Brendan O'Regan

This charity mini-album featuring seven tracks from Worcester-based singer/songwriter Carol Lee Sampson has so many excellent qualities. The vocals are clear and soulful, reminiscent at times of a young Olivia Newton John. The lyrics can be clearly heard and they are well worth hearing, covering themes of love, faith, friendship, family and even death, but always with a positive perspective that is endearing. The musical backing complements the material, with subtle acoustic guitar, piano and gentle percussion in particular. The title track, originally a charity single produced by Dave Draper, is a standout, with a forward looking attitude to the troubles of life - "Whatever happens/Hallelujah is our song." "You Make Me Feel" changes the mood with some powerful imagery ("Fashioned from molten light/In a flame so vibrant. . ./Moulded by the warm earth/In a womb so secure") on which Carol is joined by a moody sax player. Genuine human emotions figure strongly on the last two songs - "Don't Wait" has an important message about our relationships with the ones we love while "Hey You" explores the emotions of romantic love. With proceeds from sales of this project going to St Richards Hospice Foundation this is easy to recommend.

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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