Beth Hart Reaches That Elusive Good Place on "Better Than Home"

Beth Hart
“Better Than Home"
Provogue Records
2015

California blues powerhouse Beth Hart has released passionate blues, rock, and R&B albums since 1993. She shares honest and heartfelt stories of life's trials, drawing from her personal struggles with addiction and bipolar disorder. She presents songs with grit and intensity reminiscent of Janis Joplin. Hart has achieved sobriety in recent years and received well-deserved Blues Music Awards for over a decade. Often touring with Joe Bonamassa, she has garnered an impressive international following.

According to Hart, her 2015 release “Better Than Home” was recorded under "painful" circumstances in five days. Producer Michael Stevens battled cancer, while Hart faced stress and mental health issues. None of this prevented her from delivering an outstanding artistic statement. These self-penned tracks form a collection that celebrates reaching that elusive good place of peace in one’s life and holding on. “We’re Still Living in the City," and the title track reflect this, while “Trouble” and “The Mood I’m In” focus on letting go and enjoying oneself. “Mechanical Heart” explores the pursuit of love in the face of our flaws and failures.

The album finishes with the touching and heartfelt track “Mama, This One’s for You.” In this song, an adult reflects on her growing appreciation for her mother through life’s experiences, highlighting the renewed importance of their relationship. Notable tracks include "Might as Well Smile" and "As Long as I Have a Song."