L.A.-based rock singer
Beth Hart
released
Screamin' for My Supper
in 1999, three years after her debut,
Immortal
. Producing herself with help from longtime collaborator
Tal Herzberg
, and playing piano, keyboards, and arranging string sections,
is a mature, fully realized sounding record. She kicks things off with
"Just a Little Hole,"
a midtempo, smoldering cut with organ that gives it a blues/gospel feel.
Hart
's slightly raspy vocals complement things with a twinge of heartache and regret.
"Delicious Surprise"
is a punchy, roots-inflected rocker co-written with
Glen Burtnik
.
"L.A. Song,"
the lead single, explores the darker side of sunny Southern California with gentle piano backing and hushed, understated vocals that make the song thought-provoking and compelling. Other noteworthy cuts include the slinky melody of
"Is That Too Much to Ask,"
with an infectious chorus and smoking harmonica, and the poignant
"By Her,"
which adds strings and accordion to the mix.
is a confident effort that is a bit more rough-hewn than
Sheryl Crow
but fits comfortably into the same arena. ~ Tom Demalon