This reviewer is a member of the Best Buy Tech Insider Network Program. This invitation-only program provides BestBuy.com reviewers with manufacturer-supplied products for the purpose of writing honest, unbiased and usage-based reviews. Outside of receiving products to test and review, Best Buy Tech Insider Network Reviewers are not compensated in any other way.
Don't let those big eyes and young look deceive you...Diane Birch sings with a maturity far beyond her years. Think Carole King, Linda Ronstadt and Stevie Nicks talent. She impresses in her debut album Bible Belt, combining a powerful voice, skillful piano playing and superb song writing. Listening to her music is like riding a retro time machine back to the music of my childhood years. Birch describes herself as an "old soul." Old soul she may be, but she's managed to make herself a new favorite as well.
Birch combines many great musical styles seamlessly together, creating a sound all her own...gospel, doo-wop, country-blues, 70's pop. The music is a refreshing change from the standards on the radio today. I love so many of the songs on the album it is hard to choose my favorite. The gospel-like "Rise Up" ranks high on my list, as well as "Fire Escape," the opening song sung with such feeling.