There are only eight tracks on this album and that leaves the listener wishing for more.

Rebecca Cole is another classically trained musician who has found her niche in folk-based material with elements of the blues and rock. It's a nice mix.

Bloom includes a trio of tunes from an earlier album and five new originals, all of which are delivered with energy and warmth. Cole has a warm, sultry voice and belts out a song with feeling. She claims influence by Mahalia Jackson, Eva Cassidy and Bonnie Raitt, and that influence shines through in a good sense.

She's backed by a band of experienced musicians who obviously enjoy playing together. The crew consists of Reese Perkins, lead guitar; Steve Allen, bass; Kevin Gaithright, drums; and Byron Tate, harmonica. Guy Forsyth contributes on harmonica for "Flavila Cates" and saw for the lovely "White Satin."

If I had to pick favorites on this CD my choices would be the aforementioned "White Satin" and "Sapphire," though I don't think there are any throwaways on this album.

by John R. Lindermuth
Rambles.NET
20 May 2006