- Rock/Pop
- 2009
- Buy the CD
Reviewed by Mike Farley
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The set kicks off with "Fire Escape," which isn’t quite the up-tempo number you’d expect on a debut like this, but it’s not a bad track. From there, Birch launches into "Valentino," a swinging number with melodies that soar into the clouds, followed by two of the album’s best tracks, both ‘70s-inspired dead ringers for Carole King, "Fools" and "Nothing but a Miracle." "Rise Up" has a Sunday church feel, and while Birch is not technically the gospel or Christian artist you might infer from the album title, she is no doubt influenced by her dad, a conservative pastor, as well as the music that comes out of churches. Other strong tracks are the upbeat "Don’t Wait Up" and the gospel-infused ballad "Forgiveness."
Clearly, Diane Birch’s globetrotting and musical influences have contributed to the proverbial melting pot that holds her songwriting prowess – a prowess that delivers music that never sounds forced, and that is instantly easy on the ears. In fact, you may feel like you’ve been transported back in time to 1972, when the piano pop of artists like King and Elton John and Karen Carpenter were making their mark. Lofty comparisons? Maybe, but listen for yourself and you’ll likely agree they aren’t far-fetched at all.
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