When I first got this CD, I wasn't sure I liked it, but once I really started listening to it, I was so pleased to discover what a great album it is. This may not be for the Melissa Ferrick beginner (in most cases, I recommend Willing to Wait, Everything I Need, and Freedom as the best albums to start with), but it definitely is worthy of attention.

Melissa is so intense on her cd's and during her live shows. Since first seeing her live in October 2001, I now have 3 of her cd's. Her lastest "Listen Hard" is no disappointment. She burns her guitar on "Shatter Me" (my favorite from this cd) and shows her much softer side on "You". Highley recommended !

Of all of her recordings, live or studio-produced, Listen Hard exceeded even my expectations. Brian is an amazing musician and Melissa's guitar playing just blew me away. For long time fans this release may seem quite different, but for those of us who have experienced some of her live performances it's "Right On". My favorite track is Fighting Chance, but they're all quite good!The photos and album cover are the best yet too! Good job Bryna!

I can't help but thinking that Melissa Ferrick tries challenge Ani DiFranco by popping out a new album every year (something Ani was given the hardest-working-woman-in-music-biz award for) and it doesn't necessarily improve her records. I guess her last attempt "Valentine Heartache" was much better and worked out than this one. It just seems to be about getting-as-many-songs-together-as-possible-for-a-new-album and nothing more. The only standout is perhaps "Back in Love" which is very catchy. it's a pity, really!

I bought the CD while at Melissa's recent show in Washington DC. They definitely play better live. I think I prefer Freedom, and most of Willing to Wait to Listen Hard, but there are some really great tracks on this album too. I'm particularly fond of "Shatter Me." Some nice slow pieces too.