Change of Heart

AMG Review of Change of Heart

Ned Raggett
All Music Guide

The final single from People Move On showed Butler stepping away a touch from the massive rushes of "Stay" and "Not Alone," at least in terms of radio airplay. "A Change of Heart" features another string arrangement courtesy of Billy McGee, but the pace of the track is gentler and sweeter throughout, feeling big without wanting to totally stomp down the doors. Sakamoto's drumming is quite fine, and the cinematic reach Butler favors still remains, offset by quieter moments with just piano and/or vocals. "My Domain," complete with introductory cough, is a softer acoustic number, notable for showcasing the increasing strength of Butler's singing. His voice is still quite light, but the sense of straining that cropped up once or twice on People Move On is absent here, resulting in a perfectly suited matching of music, lyric, and delivery. "More Than I Thought" is equally fine, a low-key chugger matched with the soaring arrangements he prefers. Butler does an especially great job singing, holding notes the strongest he ever has, while the backing vocals add to the overall feel.