Alice Peacock
The midtempo songs on Alice Peacock's self-titled album focus on folky pop-rock confections a laSheryl CrowandShawn Colvin. "Bliss" (featuringJohn Mayer) and "Imagination" (bolstered byIndigo GirlEmily Saliers) ride a midtempo mix of multiple guitars and harmony vocals, while "I Hear You Say" and "I'll Be the One" recallFaith Hill. "Alabama Boy," meanwhile, takes its cues fromJoni Mitchell. "Into the Light" is a soaring slice of country-rock, the hidden track "Northern Star" a delicate stab at cabaret. Peacock's flowing grasp of various styles never sounds forced or fake. Indeed, her invigorating twists on standard pop make this collection a delight.--Annie Zaleski