Sheryl Crow has come a long way since her days as a backing singer for Wacko Jacko but skip past the albums and awards, her personal life has since attracted more attention namely her relationship with her ex-fiance, cyclist Lance Armstrong.

Add to that, her spoken views on the war in Iraq and supporters of George W Bush, which she reiterates in her new album Detours. ‘God Bless This Mess’ is a simple acoustic protest song reminiscent of 60s folk singers and their protests against the Vietnam conflict. 

First single ‘Love Is Free’ is inspired by the people of New Orleans and their stoicism as they try to rebuild their lives in the wake of Hurricane Katrina.  Another politically outspoken record, it is the most personal and opinionated she has ever made. 

Collaborating with Tuesday Night Music Club producer Bill Bottrell for the first time since the 1994 album, Detours offers the fresh appeal of her earlier work while subtly pushing the boundaries into new musical territory.

(4/5)