Reviewed by Lins Honeyman

The first outing with his UK backing band The Limitless Sky, this release from the Scottish singer/songwriter kicks off with trademark gusto in "She Don't Look Back" - a song that carries Nicol's recurring theme of positivity amidst adversity - before continuing in the same thundering vein with the likes of "Welcome To Dreamland" and "Live Like A Lion". Despite being hindered by some questionable backing vocals, "Another Sunrise" and "Paradise" prove that Nicol has knack for turning out intense slow numbers that reference matters of faith with gritty realism - a case further proven in the blues-tinged song of reflection "Innocence". Vocally, Nicol is on top form throughout with the song of submission "White Flag Surrender" highlighting the man's gravelly tones to great effect whilst the fun singalong of "City Soul" - complete with a cheeky Grease-style bass line - show a lighter side to both the frontman and his band. The powerful imagery of "City Of Broken Dreams" betrays the socially conscious undercurrent of Nicol's output and, together with the Springsteen-like title track, round off a raw, energetic and passionate release.

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