In music, as with most things, simplicity provides clarity. Densely layered compositions can be a feast for the senses however the listener is beguiled by the barrage of sounds, not ever having their attention linger for more than a passing second. These tapestries have a time and place. In times of contemplation and focus, one guitar and one voice can have a transcendent effect. Without all the other background noise stripped away, the listener is left to focus on those two voices. In a way it demands a more active listen as you follow each of the melodies on their journey. It becomes meditative in a way, like focussing on your breath and clearing the mind of its preoccupations.

Deb Montgomery's new album, Long Long Journey is the very definition of stripped down. Her songs centre around her soft yet hearty voice and her meandering guitar that very rarely erupts to even a strum. The lightly fingerpicked acoustic passages dance with her voice like old familiar lovers swaying together in the kitchen. The Canadian-born singer-songwriter has found her way to Seattle by way of New York. The often grey and rainy days of the Pacific Northwest must serve as the perfect inspiration for her wistful tales. Long Long Journey is best played while perched by a windowsill, staring at the light rain and all the boundless greenery that it feeds.

The self-titled opener along with 'Fear' and 'Hail to Helpless Things' and filled with intrinsic pearls of wisdom over clean, comforting six string passages. The songs play like lullabies full of guidance but aimed at a child who is on the precipice of adulthood. In fact, this theme is woven through most of the album. Even the songs that are written in the first person tell cautionary tales targeted at those a few steps back on the path. 'Awake' is the only instance on the album where the acoustic guitar is swapped out for piano, lending a touch more gravitas. 'Love Rocks You' and 'Fly Free' show Montgomery adding some grit opting for earnestly strummed chords that veer from the standard major/minor dynamic of the rest of the album. The two are naturally standout tracks.

Long Long Journey is a warm collection of songs to give you refuge from a cold damp place. Full of vulnerable confessions and wise guidance.