I nearly passed over this album purely because of its title, which immediately brought to mind the movie Deliverance and the classic track "Dueling Banjos", not exactly the style I was looking to spend an entire album with. But I decided to set that aside and give it a listen, and wow, just wow.

The album opens with “Hymn for the Unholy”, and in my mind, as the song unfolded, it was the cartoon equivalent of the jaw drop. It begins beautifully with what sounds like a church organ, before Emily’s voice enters, immediately bringing to mind (showing my age here) Mary Hopkins. It’s a slow, deliberate track, but one that builds with tremendous power, carried by touching lyrics and wonderfully expressive vocals. The emotional heft is further enriched by the cello, which adds a remarkable layer of beauty when used so perfectly. I actually played this song multiple times, each listen revealing new depth and nuance.

I have to admit, I kind of feared the next song "Appalachia", given my earlier statement, especially as it opened with an acoustic guitar and then fiddle, but my fears were abated as the song unfolded. It's funny I often hear a song and put a different vocal in there, when I feel it would work and I think it would, with the person in mind being John Denver. Not quite sure he'd handle the more challenging higher note runs, but otherwise it just has that feel.

"Sea of Ghosts" is a beautifully simple song, anchored by gentle acoustic guitar, but it’s Emily’s voice that truly shines. There’s a remarkable purity and clarity to her vocals that makes you hang on every word, drawing the listener in completely. The performance is profoundly comforting, offering a sense of calm and warmth that makes the track utterly absorbing.

The next track, "Cast Iron Heart", is a duet with John Paul White, adding a rich new texture to Emily’s music, particularly when their voices harmonise so seamlessly. I especially love the lyrics, which weave a beautiful and heartfelt tale of love, perfectly complemented by the interplay of their vocals and the subtle instrumental backdrop.

For me the next track "Time Traveler" is another highlight of the album. The words are so beautiful and touching, documenting a sad cognitive decline. For many sufferers they're oblivious to the here and now, returned to earlier, happier times, with the pain and sorrow saved for those watching on, with concern and love. Almost 5 minutes of sheer perfection.

Mmm, "Dirtbag Saloon", and those fiddles are back. Not that I have anything against fiddles per se, but it’s often where they sometimes lead that makes me wary. Fortunately, I needn’t have worried this time. The track definitely carries a country twang, yet it’s Emily’s vocals and the storytelling in the lyrics that keep me fully engaged, grounding the song and giving it its charm.

"Bless It All" is another song that spins a compelling tale, one that you can’t help but get lost in. The music is understated, mostly acoustic guitar, allowing Emily’s vocals to take centre stage, ever the storyteller. There’s a gentle intimacy here that draws the listener in, making the narrative feel immediate and heartfelt.

In "The Time for Flowers", the song unfolds as an allegory for brighter days ahead. I love how the story gradually reveals itself, with lyrics that weave the narrative beautifully and vocals that are, as always, flawless and deeply expressive. The combination of storytelling and performance makes the track both moving and uplifting.

"The Water is Wide" has the feel of a hymn, with a pacing that evokes Amazing Grace. Duncan Wickel’s vocal accompaniment adds a rich layer of texture, complementing Emily’s lead beautifully. I particularly enjoyed the introduction of the harmonica toward the end of the fourth verse. For me, it’s a perfectly pleasant and well-crafted song, though it didn’t resonate as deeply as some of the other tracks on the album.

A harmonica returns for the introduction of “The Fairest View” and makes appearances later in the track as well. The song feels noticeably more upbeat, carrying a sense of happiness and joy that contrasts beautifully with some of the album’s more reflective moments. It serves as a fitting and uplifting finale, with a warm, satisfying sense of closure.

I’m so glad I didn’t pass on this album. It’s a stunning showcase for an exceptional artist, full of beautifully crafted songs and heartfelt performances. There are at least two tracks here that I know will find their way onto multiple playlists of mine, and I’m certain I’ll return to the album as a whole many times, discovering new layers and moments with each listen.