Reviewed by Andrew Townend

Doncaster-based singer/songwriter Shirley Howitt has previously released independent albums, both by herself and with husband, Alan. Unfortunately, 'Sound Of Mercy' fails to really build on her previous album's shortcomings. Many of the album's finest lyrics are veiled by unmemorable melodies. Perhaps a lot of the classic church worship songs that we sing today do not have an incredibly attractive tune, but the songs of primary songsmith Shirley Howitt are about a personal and more individual relationship with Christ so would not work particularly well in a group praise environment either. However, many of the songs are upbeat with a certain lyrical charm, and particularly illustrate the honest, childlike faith that this group possess. There is some excellent guitar playing throughout the CD while Shirley's vocals have a hint of Nanci Griffith about them. Overall, though the album lacks distinctive melodies.

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