In her debut full-length record, Amy Courts shows with stunning ability that she is anything but a novice to the world of music. With the support of Franklin, Tennessee's RED FUSION Records with whom she teamed in early December 2006, and the production genius of seasoned studio veteran Charles Judge, best known for his work with Rascal Flatts, Faith Hill, and Carrie Underwood, her first offering is as commercially gratifying as it is unaffected and bright. With a childlike vulnerability, she conveys the basics of human frailty, frustration, and fantasy in shamelessly honest lyrics sustained by driving melodies and impassioned vocals. Listeners are mesmerized not only by her striking delivery, but more by her willingness to expose the heart at its weakest. Her voice stills listeners in their tracks; her authenticity evokes and kindles their lasting affection. Vocally and musically, Amy draws inspiration from the edgy folk-rock sounds of artists like Jennifer Knapp, Patty Griffin, and Jonatha Brooke, whose influences lend a warm familiarity to her otherwise distinct brand. Scott Bolen, CEO of Red Fusion Records, describes her sound as a fresh blend of these and other influences like Sheryl Crow, Jewel, and Stevie Nicks, and adds, "by infusing exceptional instrumentation with energy, flexibility, and the creativity of an entire band, coupled with her own unique vocal flair, Amy creates a smooth, instantly likable sound." Lyrically, Amy is fearless, drawing from a well marked by personal experience and observation, reflections on spirituality, all against the backdrop of her degree in theology. There is no subject matter too dark, personal, or intimate for Amy to consider off-limits in writing. While many of her peers stick to the formula of encouraging listeners with positive reinforcement, Amy offers a refreshingly honest perspective on real issues people deal with daily. “I don’t subscribe to the idea that I should only write songs about faith and God and ignore my marriage, work, family, friends, and basic struggles in life. All I am and do is filtered through my faith, which seasons everything I write, whatever it’s about. I don’t need to run or avoid the gamut of religious jargon in songs to prove I’m a Christian.” Throughout the record, Amy does anything but tread lightly, exploring themes of love, loss, disappointment, and ultimate satisfaction with God. In "Where Are You Now" she proves she's no stranger to feelings of abandonment and confusion, while "Barely Breathing" and "Save Me" depict one whose recognition of her weakness provokes a plea for intervention. Yet, in more accessible songs like "Company" and "Alone" she surveys the human need for intimacy, and crowns the project with the simple but profound reality of "Nothing Better." With such an artistically distinct and commercially pleasing debut, Amy Courts will satisfy even the toughest critic. If her first effort is any indication of what lies ahead, she will be a mainstay in Christian and mainstream music for years to come.