Well, she’s done it again – Jill Detroit’s latest release, “BACK TO SQUARE ONE,” is a collection of ten musical masterpieces that elevates this outstanding singer-songwriter into a rare echelon of composers who span genres effortlessly and singers who just as fluently deliver a song in a way that transports the listener to the songwriter’s intended destination. This is the tenth album from this extraordinarily prolific and gifted artist in just over three years and, in keeping with her previous releases, includes pop classics, light jazz, Americana, and folk in a seamless flow of truly inspired and original offerings. Together, Jill and her multi-talented producer, arranger, engineer, and musician Bill Bentley, have crafted yet another album that perfectly showcases this artist’s diversity and mastery of the art of songwriting. The album opens with “Some Sign of You,” a song that gives Jill a chance to show off her chops on the 4 string dulcimer (another nod to Joni Mitchell, one of Jill’s greatest musical influences) and allows the “Jill-ettes” to add their support on this intriguing, original track. This catchy tune is followed by the dreamy, Renaissance feel of “In My Own Way,” a song that continues the themes of independence and unconventionality that underscore so many of Jill’s songs as she proclaims that her “heart has a mind of its own.” The delightful pop song “I Loved You First” demonstrates Jill’s flair for double entendres and quirky sense of humor as she turns a loving relationship into a competitive sport, declaring “Before you even knew what love was, I loved you.” The background vocals alone are worth a listen as the Jill-ettes spar with the Bill-ettes throughout this light-hearted tune, culminating in an incredibly fun, creative tag section. Next up is “Only You,” a quintessential Jill Detroit composition that also features Bill Bentley on supporting vocals. The simplicity of the musical track fits perfectly with the simplicity of the song’s message: that each relationship is unique, defined only by the participants. “The Line” showcases Jill’s delightful twist on a flirtatious encounter and reveals her folk roots, with impressive finger-picking by Bill on the acoustic guitar. Bill gets a chance to flaunt his production and orchestration expertise on the light jazz treasure “You,” with Jill joining in on superbly understated vocals. “Being A Friend” evokes a “Bruce Hornsby meets Tom Petty meets Jackson Brown” feel as Jill pays homage to BFFs everywhere with an unforgettable melody, simple, true lyrics, and a groove that demands attention, not to mention five-star performances. Never one to step back from life’s harsh realities, Jill articulates the torment of confronting the potential loss of a loved one with an anguished request to “Take Me Instead.” One must admire the courage of an artist who takes on such a stark theme and the artistry of a producer who provides the perfect setting for this work of art. This extraordinary ballad gives way to the title song “Back to Square One,” with an intriguing rhyme scheme and message that reinforces one of Jill’s favorite themes: that of individuality. The closing song on this album is “You’re My Angel,” dedicated to Jill’s late daughter, Rosie. Jill’s achingly poignant performance is a testament to her strength and honesty as she reveals personal heartache encased in a loving and respectful homage to those who depart from us far too soon. Can’t imagine what a Jill Detroit “greatest hits” album would include because I haven’t heard a song from this artist yet that didn’t strike a chord (pardon the pun) with her audience. According to Jill, she is planning on taking a break from recording while continuing to grow her catalogue of songs before gracing us with more of her musical memoirs. Please don’t stay away too long – your unique voice, both literally and figuratively, has become an oasis of choice for this aficionado.