Leslie Tucker comes across as a writer of big ballads constructed to be hits in the style of
Karla Bonnoff, or a less cabaret
Melissa Manchester. She doesn't shy away from the large gesture or the open-hearted approach to a song, and there is no reason why she ought to.
Tucker's soothing and smokey voice can stand up to it all. One also hears a little
David Wilcox new age sentiment, but again she sings with a strong feminine authority. Her lyrics yearn for heart and home without resorting to musical or lyrical clichés. She is supported on this CD by a fine cast of musical characters;
Tim O'Brian,
Mike Marshall, and
Jerry Douglas. One wishes the tempo picked up once in a while, but this will be a great fireplace and white wine album. ~ Richard Meyer