Reviewed by Tony Cummings

When Cheri was recording for the Nashville CCM companies I never particularly cared for her output. It was all a little too saccharine for me. So when the news came through that she was seeking fans' help through Kickstarter to launch herself as an independent artist I wasn't exactly overcome with excitement. However, I can report that 'So I Can Tell' strikes me as Cheri's best ever album and from the piano and organ-led title track to the opener to the 'Postlude: Invitation To Hope' featuring her guitar virtuoso uncle Phil Keaggy there is a maturity here which earlier releases seemed to lack. The bouncy "Air, Food And Water" celebrates the simple joys of "a house, a dog and a lovely daughter" while "When You Were Jesus To Me" is a moving song for the heartbroken. There is now a bit of Bonnie Raitt in her singing style plus quite a bit of country. So if you're looking for some well crafted country-tinged pop this 2012 release is worth locating.

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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