Lauren Thomson: Our Love is Due (Pure)

True story: I received this five-song EP before Christmas, played it a bit then put on the "get to" pile -- which meant it was ignored in the Christmas shuffle.

The other day I pulled it out to enjoy again and post this week when an e-mail arrived from this Auckland singer-songwriter asking (politely) if I might be interested in writing about it.

You could say that was cosmic coincidence, serendipity or whatever -- or more appropriately perhaps in Thomson's case, that it was evidence God exists. Not that she needs that: Thomson is a Christian of some persuasion -- but I would hope that wouldn't deter anyone because she here delivers a showcase selection of firmly alt.country singer-songwriter styles and her slightly detached delivery (more studied weariness than any failing) is quite compelling.

Here the title track ballad could have easily come from any recent and decent Americana album and the country flavours from the small band add another rootsy dimension. When the pace lifts on the brooding Autumn Rain the band really come into their own.

Thomson has opened frequently for Miriam Clancy (whom Elsewhere tipped you off to long before any other media) and so we are saying here too is someone to watch.

This EP (with only scant religious references) hints at a deep talent waiting to emerge. Can't wait for an album if the songs are as consistently as strong and well realised as these.