
Comparisons to Dusty Springfield should normally be taken with a pinch of salt. In truth not many singers can come close to matching arguably the foremost white soul singer. Yet Erin Moran shares with her a gift for conveying genuine intimacy and passion. Admittedly 'A Girl Called Eddy' is likely to appeal to Radio 2 listeners but its AOR arrangements are rich in colour and experience; clearly this is a debut that has been carefully thought out and only released when the formula had been perfected. Part of that magic is provided by Richard Hawley, a man whose own solo work is a benchmark for any artist attempting to emulate the classicism of the 60s without sounding like a dull rehash. Yet Moran is clearly the star here. 'Somebody Hurt You', 'Girls Can Really Tear You Up Inside' and 'Tears All Over Town' set the standard for heartfelt and aching balladry, bolstered by Hawley's superb production. 'Kathleen' is a ballad dedicated to her mother; it could have been mawkish but in her hands it is touching and hopeful. At last a female singer/songwriter to get genuinely excited about.