Beth Hart's Light Shines Brightly
Michael Hobby | Wellington, New Zealand | 06/04/2003
(4 out of 5 stars)
"Beth Hart shows a strong return to form - and to her blues/soul roots - in her third release "Leave the Light on". The title track is an incisive take on the adult outcomes of abuse - perhaps exorcising some of the singer's own inner demons. Whatever the motivation, it's a powerful piece, easily on par with her previous hit single "LA Song". That single is repeated on the CD as a bonus track, along with an up-tempo remake of "Is it all too much to ask?" also from the last CD. Fears of an artist running dry of material are, however, easily put to rest by a full-on, exuberant 'live in the studio'- style performance. Other tracks range from the celebratory "Lifts you up", which kicks off the CD, rockier numbers like "Bottle of Jesus" to more blues/gospel influenced confessional tracks ("God only knows") where the Joplin influence comes through strongly. Although recorded in various places (including here in NZ) the diverse parts make a satisfying whole, showing an artist who's more at ease with herself and her situation, but still speaks eloquently to matters of the heart. "It's all good, baby" says Beth, to lead off one track. She's right."
Emmotionally Amazing
Marcella Pagnotta | East Meadow, New York United States | 09/26/2003
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This is by far her best work! She has found words to express such deep, private feelings in a way that I have never before heard. She talks to all of us with her music and provides inspiration that you can find a way to get through anything!She has such range in her voice as well as the music. After you play the CD once or twice, you will find yourself singing along with her.She is the kind of singer that you would love to see in a really small club, so you can enjoy every word that she sings!"
Why don't more people own this?
MI Musicman | Ada MI USA | 03/05/2008
(5 out of 5 stars)
"It is hard to believe only 2 people have reviewed this CD to date. IMHO I think this is Beth's best album to date, and I own everything she has put out (including the live video which rocks!). Beth has been to hell and back, and her lyrics and raw emotion bring this to life. That said, when I listen to this CD, I feel both the anguish, the hope, and the joy in the songs. I would highly recommend it to even casual Beth Hart fans."
Track Listings (11) - Disc #1