KEY POINTS:
Herald rating: * * * *
This remarkable album will test new and old fans alike, but it is her best in a long time, largely because it is so dense, heartfelt and demanding.
For the opener she works over thick, repeated chord changes in the manner of early Velvet Underground; in other places she hauls in some classic Stones-styled chords; there are disconcerting instrumental passages; elsewhere she barely sings over disturbing ambient passages; and on Tried to be a Man croaks her spooky, spoken word poetry like Waits. Circle in the Sand is downright pretty.
So, what's it all about, Rickie? Something about Christ's journey to the cross (in a tough LA urban setting, however) and redemption. Jones speaks as both observer, disciple and with the pained voice of Christ (it hurts to be here). She testifies to the humanity of Jesus who is sometimes the Son of God and sometimes a drifter, and one who warns against organised religion.
The album has a compelling depth and intensity.
Verdict: Jones becomes more selective about her audience
Label: New West/Elite
