It would be easy to dismiss Madeleine Peyroux's fourth album Bare Bones as nothing more than very pleasant background music. But, the more you listen to each of the 11 tracks, the more you realise how intricate the various layers of music are in the deceptively simple arrangements.
The American's voice and approach to singing has been compared to Billie Holiday, an artist Peyroux cites as an influence and who was noted for her style of personalising every song she sang.
Peyroux does likewise here; she has a co-writing credit on each track, bringing to them a personal touch that is only possible when a singer knows the precise event or feeling that inspired a song.
The title track, for example, is a poignant reflection on her late father and the importance of looking at the 'bare bones' of life, not complicating it.
Opener Instead is an uplifting number, with lyrics recommending gratitude for life.
Both the music and lyrics are unforgivingly honest, compelling listeners to examine their own lives, and be equally meditative. Simply brilliant.