Calmaria

This album is a wonderful collection of songs featuring the rich piano sound and warm, emotional voice of Steven Dunston. The production is simple, sparse with intimate arrangements and it is such a delight not to hear everything drenched in reverb. It is almost like Steven is sitting in the room singing just to you.

The music and especially the vocals remind me of 70s singer Colin Blunstone who also has a warm, melodious voice with a wide range.

Favourite tracks include the stand-out 'Northern Star' with its gorgeous melody, emotional pull and warm harmonies. 'Gravity' has an almost Chopinesque quality and clever lyrics. 'California' adds a band feel with bass & drums and is supplemented by rich harmony vocals.

'Little White Church' is beautiful with a lovely melody, simple vocal line and understated organ; my second favourite track. 'Tonic & Gin' has lovely playing and a strong, touching lyrical narrative. 'Man of Faith' pulls out yet another gorgeous melody and the added strings bring a warm dimension to the song.

For me, the inclusion of 'Lyle Love Song' is a mystery. The rest of the album sets a mood and tone which this sub-standard bit of country rock completely shatters. Fortunately in these days of MP3 playlists it is easy to exclude it but it seems to me a strange decision to include such an out-of-place track on this high quality collection of piano-based songs.

So, all in all, a wonderful album that rewards the listener with a rich, warm and often emotional experience. Thank you Steven for making it available here for everyone to share.