Reviewed by John Hebden

This is the third EP from the Australian born, former Farlow Star singer. Her website explains how this release marks a return to performing after a seven year break spent fighting "physical and emotional exhaustion that sent (Tanya) into a spiral of anxiety and depression." So, we have dominant themes of inner wrestling over the six tracks. Tanya's music inhabits the KT Tunstall world between pop and indie rock where chugging guitars underpin mature pop songs. "Don't Look Back" starts us off with "Everybody wants something/But you've got nothing left to give" and the songs that follow document the ensuing struggle. The title track builds to a pounding coda as the singer reaches out for a new confidence, "Driveway" deals with the mixed feelings at the end of a violent relationship and "Weight Of The World" continues the wrestling theme and could be a minor radio hit. However, the music is strongest on "Follow", which repeats the slow build of "Braver ..." but with even more restrained power in its muscular guitar and husband Dale's crisp drumming. The album ends with the piano ballad "If You Say Goodbye" where the singer is reminded of the "three strand chord that Hell cannot unwind". Money raised from sales of 'Braver ...' is being donated to a children's refuge in Tapachula, Mexico.

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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