THE Essex songbird with the bluesy voice returns with her fifth studio album eight years after her last release.

There may have been a big gap between recordings but the former Yazoo singer has certainly not lost her touch - or voice - thanks to a stint in musical Chicago in the West End.

Many of the 11 tracks have a funky, contemporary edge which complement Alison's sultry, distinctive voice.

Yesterday's Flame, More, Hometime and Ski are prime examples of this, while Mary, Don't Keep Me Waiting has more of a traditional, guitar-based feel.

Should I Feel That It's Over, which is the first track to be released as a single, is quite a slow starter but builds into a crescendo with the help of a stylish string section.

Others include You Don't Have To Go, which has a jazzy edge to it, and Do You Ever Wonder, with its haunting string intro and its ethereal, slightly melancholy feel.

This new album is sure to attract a whole new following as well as impressing long-term fans.

MC