Nuala - Shine

After listening to this album, it will come as no surprise to learn that Nuala O'Halpin is of Irish/Spanish descent. With an abiding samba lilt bouncing over mollifying acoustic picking, 'Shine' is the kind of record doomed to reach its widest audiences in café bars nationwide. At times, the imagery conjured is excellent (Green), and stripped down moments like an acapella rendition of Simple Faith and the reflective Confusion offer rare opportunities to appreciate her, at times drowned out, voice. Album closer Secret Love is a great track that will struggle to avoid Melua comparisons but still proves to be a charming conclusion. The general musical direction, however, is rigid, and the themes constant. There is little to get excited about and the lack of any killer melodies renders the album unfulfilling. If you enjoy Dido and The Corrs, chances are you'll love this. [Finbarr Bermingham]