COURTNEY MARIE ANDREWS レコード& CD

Review: Whether you thought 'May Your Kindness Remain' was the jewel in the crown of Arizona's Courtney Marie Andrews or not, one thing is for sure. This, her follow up record, sees the artist return to more familiar territory, which means losing the big band feel and late-1960s country soul grandeur of that last album, and instead focussing on a devastating level of intimacy, singing songs of heartbreak and reflection in such a personal way we feel not just connected but part of the stories unfolding. Tracks like 'How To Get Hurt' genuinely stop you in your tracks, beautiful and universally accessible balladry that reminds you of just what it means to hear a great, emotionally charged single. 'Ships In The Night' sits at the deeper end of the spectrum, while 'Old Flowers' could and should close out a sombre night drinking in some quiet saloon or other. In short, very, very good stuff.