The songs on North of Nowhere, a short album by Wing & Hollow, are moody, sometimes dark, often thoughtful, and never cheerful. The guitar work and other instrumentals are well-done. Jill Lamoureux has a strong, soulful voice, with great range. She is very emotive in her singing. The lyrics, however, are not as memorable as many of those in the group's previous album, Frozen Trees. I do like that each song tells a little story.

Besides Jill Lamoureux on vocals, the album features Haven Lamoureux on the guitar. Other contributors are Dorian Heartsong (drums, bass, percussion and Mellotron), Jonathan Richards (upright bass in the song "Keep It in the Dark"), Jose Alcantar (Mellotron) and Alex Howland (Hammond in the songs "Nowhere Town" and "Black as Blood").

This is a short CD, with only five titles.

"Look Out Below" is very rhythmic and mellow, with a melancholy feel. There are a few chances for Jill to display her strength. Nostalgia and regret are themes here.

"Nowhere Town" surprisingly, given its title, has a more upbeat sound, although the lyrics do not always match. Lack of achievement mixed with hope for the future is the theme.

"Black as Blood" is as dark as the title implies. A relatively fast-paced song about love and a relationship that is at somewhat toxic makes for the story here.

"Keep It in the Dark" is the longest song on the CD and is a quieter, slower piece. The bass adds very nicely to this relaxing tale about longing, sadness and separation.

"Not Alone" is an upbeat song in an odd way. It sounds somewhat sad, but the story is about connectedness and inner, possibly hidden strengths. It could have a religious interpretation, but not blatantly or necessarily. I think this my favorite on the album.