Jacquie Walters ’ ‘Light for a Broken World’ is a personally expressive collection of traditional folk styled melodies with a soft contemporary touch.

A use of narrative is prevalent, Walters often describing scenes and vignettes of life which are relatable (several based on news items) and evocative. This use of storytelling takes the listener through ideas of love and hope, observation and reminiscence.

Her lyrics embrace simplicity as she reflects candidly on situations, providing insights such as in the poignant lyrics of the title track, or You Stayed where she muses, “All that I have in one bag, Leave behind all the rest, Two little girls in the back seat, waving.” She delivers her lyrics with conviction, the rise and fall of her voice ranging from warm and rich tones to soft whispered passages.

Occasionally supported by soft and simple harmonies her voice rings true and honest, aided by the clean production (as well as guitar, bass, synth etc.) of James Wilkinson. Acoustic guitar plays a dominant role in the foundation of each song and is a continuous thread throughout the album. At times it is supported by soft basslines and high frequency effects, such as in Trust, but the voice and guitar are often left to speak for themselves in a pared-back manner.

The production is cohesive and consistent across the range of concepts and dynamics. With liner notes that include lyrics and a quick intro to the genesis of each song, the 11-track ‘Light for a Broken World’ is a simple, poignant album made all the more valuable in that Walters is clearly writing from her own mid-life experiences and with a strong interest in others’.