Every so often a self-produced album crosses my desk that makes me wonder at the talent and inspiration that is out there that our major labels and radio stations manage to neglect. How do these talented individuals keep going?

Louise Ford is a beautiful writer and performer who deserves a much wider audience. Her CD Heroes & Angels came without any background material, so I hope that she will forgive me if I make any errors in my interpretation.

The CD is a very spiritual and uplifting experience. No, don't dismiss it because of that. Most of the greatest music we listen to on a regular basis is spiritual -- that's often the hook that gets us without us being aware.

I particularly like the track "Homeless Cry." This is a song with heart and conscience as she sings "homeless cry, live and die on the streets, so few care, no one dare, they retreat." "Understanding" is one of those songs that you cannot help but want to play for the millions, but most particularly for politicians in this war-torn world.

My top track on the CD is the title selection. I love the sentiments and lyrics in this era of celebrity and fleeting fame. As Louise sings, "Everyday heroes lead everyday lives, take time for their families, join children at play." "Lullaby" is another gem on this album as we hear a mother sing, not to her own child, but to the children of the world who are hungry, cold and afraid.

The Irish Famine provides the background for "Grosse Isle." Here is a story that is too often neglected as we sing of Ellis Island and other landing points. Grosse Isle is the resting place of thousands on Canadian soil. I loved this song and would like to see more people hear our past described in six minutes.

The penultimate track is called "Be Strong" and I repeat it to Louise Ford. Be strong, Louise, you are writing some excellent songs and performing from the heart. With the final track I also speak to the artist as I say "Thank You" and quote her lines, "you've given music to my soul." This is an album that should be heard. It is spiritual but never maudlin. Perhaps Appleseed Records could take at least a few of the tracks.

- Rambles
written by Nicky Rossiter
published 15 May 2004