Reviewed by Lins Honeyman

Scottish singer/songwriter Ellyn Oliver will be familiar to some through her involvement with David and Yvonne Lyon's Tearfund Christmas albums, the Satellite and New Scottish Hymns worship projects and a recent appearance on the Simon Kennedy Band's latest release and this five-track EP sees Oliver finally step out in her own right. With the help of the aforementioned Scottish blues outfit's front man on lead guitar, Hammond whizz Mirek Hodun and producer Gus Stirrat on bass, Oliver showcases her musical dexterity and diversity with a small set that covers poppy soul ("Leave A Little Light"), field hollers ("Wayfaring Stranger") and gritty faith-based material ("Fire") - all of which are tied together with a powerful vocal performance that has now become her trademark. Momentarily switching from her adopted American accent for her native Aberdeenshire tones, the stripped back title track sees Oliver in her natural habitat whilst the funk soul of "Diamonds Or Gold" is the undoubted highlight of this quality maiden voyage.

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