Jill Detroit’s latest album continues this artist’s legacy of delivering an eclectic collection of songs inspired by relationships and spiritual awakenings. In typical Jill Detroit fashion, the songs range from easy listening to pop-rock, from acoustic folk to fully orchestrated classic ballads. Once again, Jill and her creative producer, Bill Bentley, remind us that life is a journey meant to be lived even if the final destination isn’t always obvious. This impressive collection begins with “If You Ask,” a song that feels as if it’s been in our subconscious for some time and hits the mark with philosophical lyrics that address pivotal life questions. Next up is “Who Are You,” a song that is elegant in its simplicity as it ponders the meaning of a relationship and questions whether defining it is even necessary. “Old Soul” is one of the many Jill Detroit songs inspired by a child. Jill conjures up a picture of a unique personality, supported by a melody that engages the listener from the very beginning. On “Don’t Ask the Question,” Jill and her producer, Bill Bentley, rock out as Jill sets forth a philosophy that merits attention: “Don’t ask the question if you can’t take the answer.” Then Jill serves up “Dominic,” another child-inspired song with sweet lyrics and delicate instrumental track that provide the perfect setting for this “love” song. Jill’s voice has never sounded as delicious as it does in “Trust,” a heartfelt ballad, delivered with a delicate authenticity, combining a flowing melody with timeless lyrics that perfectly capture the essence of the message that trust is essential to any relationship. “Listen to Me” is, to me, the quintessential Jill Detroit song, featuring a jazzy feel that perfectly underscores the message that sometimes you just need to step back, put your pride to one side, and listen. “Love Is” (aka “Wedded Bliss) was the title song to the latest musical Jill co-wrote with playwright, Scott Phillips. If the test of a true classic is that it sounds perfect stripped down to its basic melody and lyric, then this song, which was inspired by a beloved Biblical passage, is a quintessential “classic.” I admire the sensitivity of a producer who respects a song enough to serve it up in its nascent glory sans obligatory bed tracks. Kudos to Mr. Bentley. “Vulnerable” is one of the purest and most haunting songs this artist has ever created. You can hear the pain in Jill’s voice as she sees the impending storm but is helpless to avoid it. The melody is beautiful and haunting; the lyrics are exquisite; and the production is a feat of artistry. I try to imagine what it must be like, being in the studio with these two extraordinary talents, as they constructed this song. Jill’s vocal performance, both on the lead and background vocals, is absolutely perfect and demonstrates her impressive vocal range as well as her ability to capture life’s emotional complexity. The song ranks as one of Jill’s masterpieces. The final (and title) song in this impressive collection is “Around the Corner,” another haunting melody that features an intriguing jazzy piano score. As a devout Jill Detroit fan, I am continuously amazed and delighted at the unlimited creativity and versatility of this artist. This is Jill’s nineteenth album – an incredible feat for any artist – and once again, Jill establishes herself as not only one of the finest singers of her time but an amazing songwriter, both lyrically and melodically. Please tell me there are more songs to come!