Central Reservation (album)

Central Reservation is the second studio album by British singer-songwriter Beth Orton, released in 1999. It marked a significant shift in Orton's sound, moving away from the heavily electronic-influenced trip-hop of her debut, Trailer Park, towards a more folk-oriented and acoustic style.

The album features notable collaborations with artists such as Terry Callier, who lends his distinctive vocals to the title track, and Ben Harper, who plays guitar on several tracks. Other musicians contributing to the album include Dr. Robert (of The Blow Monkeys) and members of the band Spiritualized.

Central Reservation received critical acclaim upon its release, praised for its introspective lyrics, Orton's increasingly confident vocal performance, and the album's overall atmospheric and emotionally resonant sound. It was nominated for the Mercury Prize in 1999.

The album explores themes of love, loss, identity, and self-discovery, reflecting Orton's personal experiences and emotional journey. Its lyrical content is often deeply personal and poetic.

Several singles were released from Central Reservation, including "Stolen Car" and "Central Reservation." The album remains a significant work in Orton's discography and is considered a landmark album of the late 1990s.