Beth Hart is a classic example of the cliché that what you see isn’t
necessarily what you get. By looking at photos of Hart you see a
strong, confident and intense woman. A woman that I would never have
imagined to be behind the voice and lyrics on all the songs on Leave the Light
On. But underneath the tattoos and fierce looks you will find a very vulnerable, self-loathing and wounded young woman. Having already been through many trials in her life its no surprise where her resilience and inspiration originated. Hart’s soul bearing lyrics and moving voice will leave you both inspired and sad at the same time. Each song on this album takes you into her life, with lyrics describing many emotional moments she has felt at different points in her life. And by Taking you into her life, I mean literally. The passion she conveys in her songs make you feel like you are feeling exactly what she felt. Even with the incredible amount of agony in her lyrics, her songs always seem to have a somewhat positive spin on them. Telling the world that it’s alright not to be perfect.
For example in the song “Lifts You Up” she talks about life and says, “How could I run just leave it all behind When it breaks me up inside still I Refuse to hide and it is just what it is And that's all right.”
With all of the other generic music available in stores today, Beth Hart’s Leave the Light On has a bluesy/gospel, rock sound that can satisfy anyone’s desire for something different. Hart’s unique voice and sound is what sets her apart from all of the other female talents currently in music. And it's her individuality that will continue make her stand out above the rest in the years to come.
~Renee
January 15, 2004