Reviewed by Mike Rimmer

Northumbrian singer/songwriter Roly Johnson hasn't been quick to follow up his 1999 release 'Travelling Light' (awarded 10 squares by Tony Cummings at the time) but 'One Grain Of Sand' is finally here. Featuring six songs, there are three things that I love about this release. Firstly Roly's style of rootsy songwriting built around his piano and guitar with sparse, carefully placed instruments augmenting each song. It might be a little harmonica or Rob Ash's tender guitar but it was all blended together perfectly at Chapel Lane studios under the auspices of Sam Gibson. The second thing I love about this is Roly's rich vocal performance. He really has a superb voice which pulls out all the emotion from the songs. And that brings me to the third thing I love! Roly manages to pen songs that take an honest look at things mixing reality with hope. Two favourites stand out here. The opening cut "Walk A Hard Road" admits that things aren't always easy but the key is to recognise that and keep going. "Can't Change Your Heart" is an emotional piano ballad where Roly tells of singing his gospel songs in far flung parts with the realisation that God not music is the only one who can change the hearts of the audience in front of him. It's been a long overdue release but well worth the wait.

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