Breaking up isn’t hard to do for Aimee Anne Duffy, who refuses to put up with boyfriends who don’t love and respect her (“Delayed Devotion,” “Warwick Avenue,” “Serious”). She fights an attraction to a manipulative guy, asking for her release on “Mercy” (“I love you, but I gotta stay true/My morals got me on my knees”). Moving to the town of “Rockferry” after a breakup, Duffy focuses confidently on the future (“I give it my all, my strength and my mind/I’ll make this decision, win all the fights”). With similar optimism, “Distant Dreamer” remains hopeful that the best life has to offer may be waiting right around the corner. “Syrup & Honey” is a sweet love song. “I’m Scared” finds a woman coping after the sudden loss of the man she loves, however …
There’s no clear marital context, and it’s implied that the couple shared a bed. Angry with a lying partner who took advantage of her, Duffy tells him, “You can go to h—” (“Delayed Devotion”).
Dusty Springfield meets Motown on this retro, neo-soul disc. Equally old-school are the 24-year-old Welsh singer’s self-respect in romantic contexts and her desire to peer past heartache, anticipating what life has in store. A solid, confident effort with only minor flaws.
After serving as an associate editor at NavPress’ Discipleship Journal and consulting editor for Current Thoughts and Trends, Adam now oversees the editing and publishing of Plugged In’s reviews as the site’s director. He and his wife, Jennifer, have three children. In their free time, the Holzes enjoy playing games, a variety of musical instruments, swimming and … watching movies.
