Liverpool Sound and Vision Rating 8.5/10

Maddie Stenberg takes it all in her stride, a fierce boldness that radiates outwards and burns within like a volcanic fire and yet has at its heart a sense of absolute serenity, of passion for the soft spoken word and the demeanour of a Queen, regal in her stance, an assurance of her talent flowing through her like a spring tide, and in the single Take Me Home, the endowment of playing and composing songs is quite simply a joy, a recognition of the hard work done and how much the future can hold her with pride.

Pride is a pretty awkward emotion to try and harness, it has issues with itself and takes guard against those who have not earned it; especially in this day and age where being plucked from the space of obscurity to television superstardom is a national pastime. In that sweeping gesture that befalls so many, the slope far too steep and sprayed liberally with industrial strength polish ready to catch those who seek fame without the talent out.

In is the grounding of many like Maddie Stenberg that sees them become a draw locally, the backing of those that raised them first, the smile of Take Me Home reflects that, the comfort of routine sewn through their character, a song that instantly plays with the listener’s emotions, and one that installs forcibly, but with kindness, the fact that home is the bedrock of success and accomplishment.

A terrific song, undoubted in the hands of Maddie Stenberg, her voice suiting perfectly the strong feelings held open for the listener, a volcano, a turmoil at sea, all is calm in the hands of someone who genuinely cares for the song written, who takes the time, even at a young age, to understand the responsibility they hold.

Take Me Home, for there is no better place to be.

Ian D. Hall