Album Review: Joe Chester, She Darks Me: Remixed and Re-mastered

"She Darks Me has all the makings of a sleeper hit," the original review in Hot Press said almost prophetically. Sure enough, eight years later the album is re-released and ready, hopefully, to earn the recognition it deserves. Beautiful in its new rendering, She Darks Me is one of those rare albums that can provide an unobtrusive soundtrack to everyday life while also digging deep, capturing the complexities and subtleties inherent in any relationship. While some tracks appear happy upon first listen, the tragedy, frustration and heartache beneath the upbeat facade is never far away. Indeed, a line from 'Acid Rain' - "sometimes love feels worse than it looks" - offers a neat description of the record. Standout number 'The Middle Distance' has an impressive widescreen production, whilst 'Mercy Killer Born To Deceive' and 'Most Of The Time' are notable for their raw vulnerability. Overall, this return of She Darks Me should delight loyal fans. May it win multitudes of new converts.

Out now.

8/10