Suzanne Rhatigan

Former Stock, Aitken, Waterman session singer, Suzanne Rhatigan makes it clear where she is coming from at the outset of the title track. Playing a woman not to be trifled with over a smoldering, bluesy musical backdrop, Rhatigan delivers her manifesto with both a sultry purr and a menacing growl. Prime-time players such as Matthew Sweet, Robert Quine, Bernie Worrell, and producer Fred Maher provide the stellar musicianship and Craig Charles provides some of the strongest lyrics ("Open Up," the waltz-like "The Spinner of Years"). Rhatigan's lyrical contributions can be a bit slight ("All You Ever Need"), but her powerful vocals manage to carry potentially weaker material as on the aching "The Further in We Go." The vulnerability of that song, and others like the folk-pop "Shelter Me" and the gentle "Daddy," give To Hell With Love an appealing emotional depth. Perhaps a bit too glossy at times, To Hell With Love shows an artist worthy of an audience for her blend of alternative, pop, folk, and blues. ~ Tom Demalon, All Music Guide