She and returning producer Donnie Boutwell have created another sparkling expression of hope, faith and truth. As on their earlier collaboration, "Always Eden," they again sprinkled delicate grace notes of haunting beauty throughout the project: Justin Glasco's tremulous accordion on standout track "Hope," the lyrical dobro of "If I'm Brave." And soaring over all ring Rogers' dulcet vocals. She has the unique capacity to somehow express the heart's deepest yearnings, always optimistically. To put it plainly, listening to Allie Rogers helps me to believe.
These appealing songs add up to a mature declaration of trust, delivered simply yet passionately. "Liar's Dream" affirms "I believe there's a way when things seem out of control." This theme of trust covers the album like the warmest of blankets, comforting and true, even as she boldly examines the day's fearful realities. The powerfully affirming "Hope" was written after watching the victims of the tsunami and Hurricane Katrina plead for help. The moving "Tanzania" explores the vulnerabilities of mothering in both Africa and America. She never shrinks back, this gutsy Alli Rogers.
And lest you think she's all business, check out the twangy bluegrass of "Fearless," sheer fun all the way through to the soaring bridge. The delicate "Wings on My Back," with David Henry's plunking cello, stands out as one of the most intriguing love songs of the year. "Iowa" is the first song to ever really help me to "get" the heart's capacity to love land as home. I've never felt that before listening to Alli Rogers. "The Family is Fine" hits home with the same devastating aim. I can't rave enough about Alli Rogers. Just drop whatever you're doing and get thee to a music store. Fast.
