K.C Clifford "Orchid" (Free Skipper Records, 2010)

Flowery loveliness in an album

Early last year Oklahoma singer/songwriter K.C Clifford appeared on the US TV programme ‘The Biggest Loser’. What is it that she lost? Over 100 lbs. Any dieters out there will realise that this is no mean feat. But this isn’t her greatest achievement.

Maybe winning multiple awards for her talents - including two Woodie Guthrie awards - and producing three wonderful albums, tops mega weight loss. But there is no doubt that this life-changing physical change has influenced her latest album, 'Orchid'.

Orchid is a beautiful collection of songs that mix calming melodies with powerful, personal lyrics and divine musical arrangements.

Clifford’s vocals are clean and sweet, but don’t be fooled, the words are at times cutting and bitter. There are many twists and turns throughout this album, and it makes it all the more interesting to hear.

'Orchid' is unsurprisingly feminine, but not sickly sweet, and it truly blossoms in parts. Clifford’s band did a wonderful job in creating the album’s heady atmosphere. And you can’t listen to 'Orchid' without giving a big thumbs up to the gorgeous string arrangements, which are smooth, flowing and simply delicious.

Overall the album is great, so grab a copy, lie down, close your eyes and smell the roses.

Date review added:  Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Reviewer:  Sian Claire Owen
Reviewers Rating:
Related web link:  Artist's Website