Fish Records - MARYBETH D`AMICO - HEAVEN HELL SIN AND REDEMPTION

Full Review

Marybeth D’Amico – Heaven, Hell, Sin & Redemption

American Marybeth D’Amico calls Germany her home, but her music has its roots firmly in America, she has the singer/songwriter sensibilities of an East Coast writer with smart intelligent lyrics and melody rich songs. She has much in common with artists such as Lori McKenna, Patty Griffin, and has an obvious connection to Antje Duvekot who mirrors Marybeth’s US to Germany migration.

Recorded in Texas, the album has a relaxed country/folk feel, the arrangements are fully rounded but never over done; her own acoustic guitar is ever present and this is backed by guitars, keyboards, fiddle, pedal steel and dobro, provided by an excellent band including Lloyd Maines, Bradley Kopp and Richard Bowden.

The title may hint at a dark side to the album, and the songs do have an edge with fully rounded characters dealing with the trials of life, including a young couple breaking away from a strict upbringing, a single parent struggling to settle down, through to the thoughts of a wrongfully convicted prisoner. While all this may sound a too downbeat, she has a skilful way of presenting the songs and a great ear for a melody, and the balance of the album is pretty much perfect; it doesn’t shy away from serious issues but the melodies and arrangements give the album a lift and make it an enjoyable listen.

There are many highlights on the album that cover a good range of styles, the most obvious radio track comes from infectious melody and guitar/keyboard arrangement of ‘A Love Story’, ‘Ohio’ feels like a traditional brooding Texan murder ballad, and ‘Every Week’ is a track with a light touch and thoughtful arrangement.

‘Heaven, Hell, Sin & Redemption’ is a disc that is full of strong songs that are well arranged and produced and directly delivered by Marybeth’s distinctive, slightly plaintive vocals, and it’s a combination that works perfectly over the course of the album. Those interested in similar artists such as McKenna, Duvekot, Griffin and Lucinda Williams will find much to reward them here.

MARYBETH D`AMICO - HEAVEN HELL SIN AND REDEMPTION

Marybeth D`amico