published: 1 /
3 /
2018
Label:
BNC Records
Format: CD
Singer-songwriter Beth Nielsen Chapman’s new album features evocative songwriting, delicate instrumental arrangements and poignant themes
Review
“In this world of vast illusion I held a picture in my mind,” sings sonorous singer songwriter Beth Nielsen Chapman on the opening song ‘Come to Mine’ on new album, ‘Hearts of Glass’. This well-crafted stunner was co-written by Chapman with award-winning Graham Gouldman and Kevin Montgomery and is the only other co-write besides ‘Enough for Me’, which was co--written by the album’s producer Sam Ashworth.
The earnest acoustic guitar on ‘Epitaph for Love’ is as haunting as the vulnerable theme and the singer’s enchanting interpretation. Give this song a close listen so you won’t miss illustrious references, such as “Just a note that hangs upon a staff/An epitaph for love...” ‘Rage on Rage’ also enjoys a wistful melancholia and light endearing acoustic arrangement, but the theme is considerably more sombre. It grows more heartbreakingly gorgeous, as Chapman counterpunches the guitar lines with whispered vocalisations.
‘Enough For Me’ is a more sing-along-with country/pop. And ‘You’re Still My Valentine’ exudes a one-off, old-timey divinity, featuring lovely reflections: “One thing I’m certain/I’m yours, you’re mine.” ‘Child Again’ is another profound exploration, slightly reminiscent of early Joni Mitchell.
The sincere statement “My world has midnight, daylight, sunsets and dawns…” sets the stage in the romantic country ballad, ‘If My World Didn’t Have You.’ The story line of ‘Life Holds On’ centres around bittersweet childhood memories as well as the miracle of resilience. Chapman comes full circle as the narrator/parental figure and forceful storyteller.
The final song, ‘Dancer to the Drum’, not surprisingly, sums up a myriad of deep emotions. “The child will carry our existence to the days that we have on earth” is but one sentiment in a quarry of sparkling gems.
Track Listing:-
1
Come to Mine
2
Old Church Hymns & Nursery Rhymes
3
Epitaph for Love
4
Enough for Me
5
Rage on Rage
6
You're Still My Valentine
7
All for the Love
8
Child Again
9
If My World Didn't Have You
10
Life Holds On
11
Dancer to the Drum
Band Links:-
https://bethnielsenchapman.com/
https://www.facebook.com/bethnielsench
https://twitter.com/bncmusic
https://www.youtube.com/user/Bcarolthw
https://plus.google.com/u/0/1147781477