This album is a treat from start to finish. Gabrielle has always told great stories through her song lyrics and this album continues the trend, only the songs have become even more touching and deeply personal.

From "Ten Years Time" where she asks someone to ponder their situation in life to the triumphant "Play To Win" (probably her finest song ever) where she pleads with someone to stay determined and hopeful in spite of life complications, and the poignant "Fallen Angel" where she tries to help someone shake their demons to see their potential and validity in life, Gabrielle does not hold back on this record.

Her voice sounds incredible throughout and the musical arrangements could induce tears of joy from the beautiful sounds they create. Although this album is definitely more low key than her past releases, this is likely a reflection of where Gabrielle was in her life when writing and recording the album (fresh off a highly successful third album and Greatest Hits album and tour) and wanting to take things down a notch. Some stunning downtempo moments include the introspective "Sometimes" (which also features in Bridget Jones 2: The Edge of Reason) as well as the heartbreaking "You Used To Love Me", the affirmative "No Big Deal" and the compelling "Tumbling Down" which addresses peace conflict in the world.

The album also has tinges of country throughout, and several uptempo moments including the Cure-sounding "Stay the Same" (also a bit of a testament to Gabrielle's commitment to quality music) and the glorious hidden track "Letting Go" (also the bside to the Stay the Same single).

This album is indeed a win and will touch your heart for years to come, as will any item within Gabrielle's stunning back catalogue.

Though she made a small blip on the pop radar stateside in the early '90s with "Dreams", that's was pretty much the last heard from Gabrielle around these parts, despite releasing two additional albums(yes, here in the states), and remaining rather significant in her native UK. PLAY TO WIN pretty much continues in the vein of her previous RISE, with alot of the tracks framed by acoustic guitars and instruments that wouldn't sound out of place on a country record("You Used To Love Me" springs to mind). Musically, the set is probably her strongest to date as far as quality goes--first single "Stay The Same", as well as "Sometimes", "Fallen Angel", and "No Big Deal" all match any of her previous bests("Dreams", "Sunshine"). Granted, the singer's continued low-key approach isn't going to set your stereo speakers on fire, but it's nonetheless comforting to know that some things don't, and probably never will, change.