Following up a work as intense as Prism, a “culturally rich double CD sung in nine different languages,” can’t be easy. Instead of trying to top Prism however, Ms. Chapman chose to return to her roots and rediscover the opposite of Prism. Back to Love is an album chock full of acoustic-ish songs that will certainly remind you of just why she is one of music’s premier artists.
The album kicks off with the borderline off-key “Hallelujah” performed with Americana hero Darell Scott. Vocally it reminds me of Dylan and Cash’s “Girl From the North Country” because when the two artists sing together as it sounds so off that it’s absolutely beautiful and completely pure sounding. “I Can See Me Loving You” is a little more “together” sounding, adding a slight pop edge to the album that I like quite a bit. “More Than Love” furthers the albums rich dynamics with an almost Gospel sounding root that just doesn’t let go. It sounds very pre-NashVegas style Nashville. The musically somber but lyrically wonderful “Happiness” is the perfect companion to it.
There are very few dull moments here. Chapman keeps the album moving at a solid pace while being sure to give you time to reflect here and there- in other words Back to Love plays like an album in the most classic fashion. Fans of artists like Sarah McLachlan, Ashley Cleveland, Justin Currie, and Joan Osbourne’s Vanguard work, will absolutely love this album.
Reviewed by Mark Fisher
