REAL ROOTS CAFE REVIEW
MARISA YEAMAN Pure Motive (Deep Pearl)

It cannot be denied that we hear quite regularly excellent 'Americana' Aussies singing from 'down under'. Think of for instance, Cyndi Boste, Audrey Auld Mezera and Kasey Chambers. Now a new talent is added to this list; Marisa Yeaman. Her first CD 'Pure Motive' is a step in the right direction. The album consists of thirteen songs, which offer an attractive variety with folksy, bluesy characters. With lighter up tempo repertoire its inspiring work.

The songs which have been gathered on this CD span a period of several years, yet they sound very coherent. From a musical point of view it sounds like a fresh breeze and I especially like the acoustic guitar work. All the songs have been composed by Marisa with some of them in partnership with guitarist Andrew Pendlebury.

Briefly, this is a magnificent product with a broad spectrum of traditional instruments, such as the dobro, pedal steel, mouth organ, various guitars, drums & percussion etc., But Marisa's voice is always central. (Think of Sharleen Spiteri of the Scottish Band Texas). It is a great CD which leans more towards a pop album than a roots product, but that doesn't detract from the end results.

Rein van den Berg
Translation kindly done by Mary van Toor