Theoretically,
Distant Call,
Susan Ashton's first album since her greatest-hits collection
So Far, The Best of Susan Ashton, Vol. 1, and her first record for Chordant, gives the popular CCM vocalist an opportunity to change her musical direction, but that isn't the case. After all, CCM isn't about musical diversity -- it's about consistency and predictability. So,
Distant Call gives her fans what they want: a few smooth adult contemporary pop cuts, several folky country numbers, and the odd jazz number. It's all performed professionally and sounds quite pleasant, but for casual fans, it's not necessarily a necessary purchase. ~ Rodney Batdorf