"These 11 warm and gentle songs are exquisitely rendered - Smith's restrained, economical guitar style means not a note is wasted - but whereas a memorable hook is never far away in the songs of fellow traveller David Gray, here they remain tantalisingly out of reach. It's all pleasant enough, but falls some way short of being compelling"

"... it's a joy to hear John so positive about his relationship and new baby back home. From his songwriting, it's clear he's someone who thinks and cares deeply, so it's comforting to know he has someone who does the same for him. So, if you haven't already, do check out Headlong. It's the kind of album that might prick up the ears of a non-folkie friend, and with any luck hook them into something deeper and more heartfelt than your average singer-songwriter"