Represents embracing the strength of middle-age, and also the confidence and inner peace that comes with it.

This is Beth Hart's first solo release since 'Fire On The Floor' in 2016 and listening to a new album from her is comforting in many ways; you know what you are going to get – raw honesty and beautiful songs that are delivered by one of the most remarkable voices around. 'War In My Mind' does not disappoint. The title-track is an invitation into the artist's head and her attempt to describe her bipolar brain; it's a no holds barred musical essay of all-or-nothing, highest-of-highs and deepest-of-lows.

Overall, the album is more introspective than her previous efforts and it has a sense of catharsis. Hart has come to accept her demons, and she has maybe at last forgiven herself and finally laid them to rest. 'Let It Grow' is an uplifting signal to the future; "I am stronger than I think I am", she sings and it is the very antithesis to 'Let it Go'. There is a fun side on display as well because 'Try A Little Harder' is a catchy little ditty, while 'Bad Woman Blues' is a naughty Blues song in which she extols her bad qualities yet tells you if you come along for the ride, she's kind of fun too.

The loss of her sister is a re-occurring theme in her tracks and 'Sister Dear' is heart-wrenching. She shares the raw sadness and if you have ever experienced similar loss it will rip you open. Hart loves music and also loves learning, and 'Spanish Lullabies' suggests she has been exploring some Spanish styles. Elsewhere, 'Sugar Shack' is an almost Disco-inspired song that shimmers like a glitter ball, whereas 'Thankful' seems to sum up the sentiment of the entire release.

Beth Hart has been through more in her life than most. She battles on a daily basis with her bipolar disorder, but today she is in a good place in her life, now surrounded by good people in both her personal and work life, and she is finally comfortable in her skin.

'War In My Mind' represents embracing the strength of middle-age, and also the confidence and inner peace that comes with it.

Helen Bradley