October 2005
"Man of God" is the only instance where Gilkysons anger causes her to resort to cliché. On the remaining tunes, her strong poetic voice rings true and strong. In "Think About You" she sings: "Im a sucker for the thrill of the chase / A little damage and a little grace." Gilkysons gift for melody never falters on Paradise Hotel, and her ear for arranging is as strong here as it was on Lost and Found (2002) and Land of Milk and Honey (a 2004 Grammy nominee). She lets great players shine throughout, especially guitarist Mike Hardwick, and her own solid guitar playing anchors the disc. In the end, it is the pure honesty and conviction of Gilkysons voice that brings her songs across. Her slightly raspy singing carries years of experience with it, and she never pushes too hard. She is an essential American songwriter, and she keeps getting better. GO BACK TO: |