Reviewed by Martin Kendrick

An up and coming new songstress from Redcar in the North East of England. Beth Baxter is from the classic singer/-songwriter mould, writing worshipful acoustic songs with an indie edge. Beth has a style that would be very at home renting the pigeon hole belonging to Cathy Burton and Lou Fellingham and a sound reminiscent of Beth Orton, The Watson Twins and Polly Paulusma, and a voice that has that charming Nina from The Cranberries-like Irish twang. It's a true DIY independent release and with that in mind the production quality is pretty good. The album has a very soothing overall feel to it with gentle acoustic melodies and very personal, prayerful lyrics of worship and thanks. Beth's voice is by far the best attribute of 'Ends And Beginnings'. Captivating and gentle, and when given plenty of reverb, like on the beautiful "Turning Round", gives it an almost Sinead O'Connor/Kirsty Macoll-like quality. She writes simple yet effective choruses, with memorable melodic and lyrical hooks that really draw you in. Here's hoping Beth lands the record deal she deserves.

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