Anna Van Riel ’s country music style has a real crossover sound. From first track Break Down you’ll play it all the way through. In fact, you may light a bonfire that night, grab your besties and stay up chatting till the sun comes up, ‘Whistle and Hum’ has that kind of vibe.

It’s a lively, natural sounding album with notes of whisky, baby brain (Anna is a mama) and knee slapping moments too. The songs – more like stories – are intimate, honest and funny. There are vocal nods to Dolly and Jewel but she has her own wonderful emotive voice, the kind that can make you feel like your friends with her already.

The live band is very good and it’s been beautifully recorded and produced by Danny Fairley and mastered by Daimon Schwalger. In 2013, Anna spent three months on the Sustainable House Concert touring through the US and Canada, showcasing this album. ‘Whistle and Hum’ is a rouge rustic album, just like the retro artwork, which is printed on 100% recycled paper and assembled by hand (bonus points from me). Not giving this album to anyone after reviewing it, go get your own!