Lovers Speak marks not only Joan Armatrading"s return to recording after an eight-year hiaturs, but to the stripped down, folk-rock sounds of her earlier years. Armatrading here plays most of the instruments herself, as well as the role of producer, and while she’s a fantastic talent,the collection has a few thin spots, both in terms of production and song quality. However, Lovers Speak is a solid enough collection for the true fan, and would serve the novice listener well as an introduction to her more current output. The numerous standouts include the guitar- and percussion-driven title track and "Let’s Talk About Us," the heartrending "Less Happy More Often," the beautiful and intimate "Crazy for You," and the introspective "Blessed." "In These Times" is a solemn piano ballad, surprisingly written before the events of 9/11, that makes you want to call your best friend. --Lorry Fleming