Reviewed by Paddy Hudspith

I was moved by UK-born, USA-based Deborah's words about the genesis of this project: "The graveyards of this world are filled with unwritten songs, unpainted works of art, unwritten books and uncreated inventions that God was longing to give. My vision for this album is that these songs will help you to focus on him so that you will listen, hear his voice, and be all that he created you to be." Pira seeks to enable this in her listeners by offering a mixture of gentle acoustic and softly rocking meditative tunes which, although simple and easy to take in, are not simplistic. They are honest, unpretentious and uncomplicated songs that, for the most part, would act well as stimuli to thoughtful reflection and prayer. Pira is most successful on the gentler numbers (such as "Bring", "Burn" and the title track). On more uptempo songs, as it turns out, Deborah the songwriter does Deborah the vocalist something of a disservice, opting regularly to include higher notes which she strains a little to reach. The production by renowned axe hero Norman Barratt (formerly of the Barratt Band and Alwyn Wall Band) is top-notch throughout and I recommend 'Deep Sound' to anyone looking for a useful quiet time resource. For the most part this album will draw you inwards and upwards.

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.