Reviews
Karen Shadbolt “ Better Day “
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The first thing that strikes you about this Album is the cover art Karen is just a very photogenic lady this is a good thing LOL , The album contains ten tracks all written and composed and performed by Karen. This in itself is a rare thing these days to find a totally original album for there is usually at least 1 cover track in most Albums these days.
The Alum is released under the Rushing Winds Records label and the production of the album is impeccable it’s very evident that time was taken to ensure the best production on every track vocals and harmonies and instrumentation are faultless throughout. A real credit to the engineering of Gary Rushing.
The Album opens with “ Jesus The One And Only “ a nice mid to uptempo praise song that’s immediately lets you hear the quality & timbre of Karen’s voice. This leads into a slow acoustic feel with the second track “ I won’t Let Go” which is a soothing acoustic ballad that Karen sings effortlessly. Track 3 “ God Of Endless Grace “ Shows the soft rock side of Karen with good use of vocal harmonies and a good driving bass this one gets your feet tapping. “ Broken Bridges “ track 4 takes you back to a more mellow mood with a meaningful piano based ballad. My second favorite track on the album is “The Road Less Travelled “ track 5 A good song lyrically and has a light almost Celtic feel to it especially with the flute intro. Track 6 “ Rock Of Ages “ sees Karen rocking it up a little Good vocals here and nice use of the Hammond type organ really fills this track out. Now my personal pick for best track on the Album track 7 “ Keep On Living “ it catches you right from the start with an interesting guitar based intro Vocals are excellent throughout and keeps you interested without being too busy, the chorus chord progression wise reminds me of Eric Clapton’s “ Knocking On Heaven’s Door “ maybe that’s why I like this one so much I’m a big fan of Clapton LOL. Track 8 is “ Close To Me “ an intimate ballad that works well. Then comes track 9 “ Who You Are “ which to me is the most commercial track on the entire CD and if released as a single to radio in my opinion would do very well. The Final track number 10 is “ Good And Faithful One “again a good track both lyrically and musically and provides a fitting end to what really is a most engaging CD. This being my first encounter with Karen Shadbolt and her music would definitely lead me to wanting to hear more from her.
All in all this is a well produced and excellently performed CD that would easily grace the collections of most good discerning Christian music fans .
Karen Shadbolt's CD’s are available from her website at
This review by
Derek McCorkell
DJ and Producer of “ The True Spirit Powered Radio Show “
Part of the Triplestrand Productions Group
Minnesota USA