ALBUM REVIEW

NELL BRYDEN - BLOOM

A VOICE combining the power of Annie Lennox and the tenderness of Carly Simon, Nell Bryden ticks all the boxes.

Bryden, an American singer-songwriter has been embraced by the British public after multiple Radio 2 play-listings and speaking out about suffering with alopecia.

So there's no avoiding the personal stuff that enhances these 13 tracks. On album opener In the Morning Bryden sings about being herself and 'starting over'.

Lie to You is a powerful belter of an anthem and gives hint of the soft rock style Bryden has skilfully turned her hand to for much of the album.

Gunshot Grey is a number of steely resolve said to be influenced by the Alabama Shakes. Although some of this new material could alienate Bryden's fans who prefer a ballad-heavy album, this new direction can only be applauded.

JOANNA DAVIS