What makes East West by Julia Fordham notable?

'East West' received critical acclaim for its production quality and lyrical depth, though it did not achieve the commercial success of its predecessors. The album features poignant storytelling that resonated with listeners, further establishing Fordham as an influential figure in the UK pop landscape during the late 90s. By the time 'East West' was released in January 1997, Julia Fordham had already garnered attention with her self-titled debut in 1988 and the successful album 'Porcelain' in 1992. This third studio album marked a continuation of her exploration into personal and emotional themes, further solidifying her presence in the adult contemporary pop scene.