Several ballads explore loving relationships. “The Promise” assures a partner that, should reconciliation be desired, the door is always open. To deepen intimacy, she reveals her own history of ups and downs on “At This Point in My Life.” Chapman also urges a friend to testify against social injustices (“Tell It Like It Is”), and tells of a man whose unwise decisions proved fatal (“Cold Feet”). Elsewhere, she denounces divisiveness, war and lack of communication, however . . .
With New Age leanings, the artist suggests that purpose, meaning and ultimate satisfaction can be attained via “faith in human kind” and “respect for what is earthly” on the song “Heaven’s Here on Earth.” Similarly, “The Rape of the World” relies on the pagan Earth-mother concept to shame listeners into environmental responsibility.
Beginning glides along on pleasant acoustic rhythms and earnest vocals. Too bad faulty theology mars this otherwise worthwhile, socially conscious collection.
