Carrie Newcomer - The Geography of Light (2008)

The Geography of Light, the latest Philo recording from folk-roots artist Carrie Newcomer, is a resonant soundtrack for a world that is both sacred and ordinary. Newcomer sings about serious subjects with clarity and elegance, and a healthy measure of good humor and self-awareness, with a voice the Austin Statesman has called "as rich as Godiva chocolate." Her music resonates with Appalachian and classical influences, and The Geography of Light combines piano, violin, mandolin, cello, bass, percussion, and harmony vocal textures with Newcomer's adept guitar work and powerful but intimate vocals. The result is an exceptional album that captures the light and shadow in all of our lives.

Though her lyrics are never preachy, Carrie Newcomer maintains a musically hymn-like resonance. She sings of miracles and mystery, of everyday grace and wonder, of dark nights of the soul and the palpable presence of a higher power. And she does so in a warm alto that provides the comfort of a friend, supported by the interplay of chamber strings, piano, an English horn, and even the occasional Cajun accordion. Not everything is sweetness and light, as the ominous "A Mean Kind of Justice" attests, but highlights such as "The Clean Edge of Change," "A Map of Shadows," and "Throw Me a Line" reflect the uncommon spiritual depth of her artistry. -- Don McLeese