Kathleen Edwards: Back To Me with all the critical kudos accorded her debut offering, 2003's failer, canadian songstress kathleen edwards had the intimidating job of coming up with an equally arresting follow-up. while its moody yet defiant attitude allowed failer to reap the benefits of a dramatic first impression, back to me makes an equally dynamic impact, despite an approach that sometimes encroaches on that earlier effort. fortunately, the similarity doesn't work to its detriment; edwards continues to define herself as a potent songwriter adept at carving indelible characters that voice sentiments laden with remorse and resignation. the songs play out to both sides of the emotional divide, from weary, melancholy ballads ("pink emerson radio," "old time sake," "away," "copied keys") to ruggedly tenacious mid-tempo rockers fueled by dogged determination ("in state," "back to me," "independent thief," "summer long," "what are you waiting for," "somewhere else'). all bear scrutiny, if for no other reason than to relish her visceral delivery. "good things" is a typical case in point; with tenderness and vulnerability, it suggests a sound in which the ache of disappointment and heartache is all too palpable. clearly failer was no fluke; edwards is a singularly affecting talent and back to me brings it all back home. lee zimmerman amplifiermagazine.com				Album reviews Feature articles Interviews Show reviews