AMERICANA UK

September 2003

"Much as I like The Coming Grass and much as most of them play on this, I've always thought it would be interesting to hear what a Sara Cox solo album would sound like, as her clear-eyed and moving voice has been one of the highlights of their recorded output so far. And the result is really pleasing- she's been relaxed enough about the project to try being a little bit pop as well as allowing for the regular rock/folk/country

"Hit the Wall" is just great - and Nate Schrock must be congratulated for production work here as well as co-arranging - the piano tinkles away in a faintly seductive way, the drums have enough echo and punch to add a rock edge, and the wordless but lyrical hook will burrow its way into your head and stay there. As the end of the song approaches, the piano begins to reprise Cox's emotive warble, and the subtley integrated guitar makes its agreement known. "Look up" sounds like Sara wrote it for Beth Gibbons in her solo frame of mind, and the deep, dark percussion even echoes the Somerset sound; "Confession #87" makes me think of Joan Baez and a little of Iron and Wine, whilst her version of Richard Buckner's "Fater" is just a show-stopper.

The impressive thing about this project (and Cox generally) is the sheer musical and emotional range of her voice- from almost traditional mountain a capella to full throated soulful roar. Now, many people can pull off eclecticism and variety, but often it sounds forced and pretentious at best; for this Nashville born New Englander, it's the sense of conviction and depth of feeling that mark her out and enable her to be so nimble.

"Arrive" will find a place in your heart, and is likely to be resident there for some years to come-it's that good. Don't worry if you've never bought a Coming Grass cd, and don't worry if you didn't ever get the hang of them- this is the sound of a fully formed artist breaking through, and with justice, it will earn her critical plaudits as well as impressive record sales."