Allison Speer

Writer
Independent

Allison Speer’s new CD, “Writer,” is something of a departure for her. Her beautiful Kentucky-tinged alto voice that’s made her so popular as a vocalist with Bill Gaither is still as heavenly as ever. What’s different this time is that she’s stepped out into writing and performing her own songs, something she says she’s been uncomfortable with in the past. I can’t imagine why. Speer co-wrote every song on “Writer” and there’s not a bad song in the bunch.

If you were already a fan, then you will be glad to know the delicate southern gospel arrangements that are her trademark are still there. Few vocalists can weave a song around the solid acoustic gospel music like Speer.

This record is a joy to listen to and everything from the finger-style guitar, whistles, solid bass, soaring piano, whirling B3 organ and inspired and subtle drumming add to the magic of Speer’s vocals. Yes I like this a lot.

It’s a shame to pick out the stronger tracks because they’re all great. But certainly I have to give a special nod to the song “She’s Better Now,” written by Speer and Joel Lindsey as a tribute to their mothers and featured on the Gaither Homecoming Video “Women of Homecoming.” “The Crown” is another standout with its simple piano-driven arrangement. “The Light of the Kerosene” is a great song inspired by a real story of a grandmother, who despite her fading eyesight taught her grandson to read the Bible by the light of a kerosene lamp.

“Writer” is available on iTunes, Amazon.com and Speer’s website, allisonspeer.com.