After becoming a mother while losing her own, Sarah McLachlan is back with her first studio album in six years. And for the most part, compared to the last time, it's far heavier on melodies than hooks.

The follow-up to Surfacing opens with the single Fallen, one of the strongest songs of the 10 here. Despite its references to planes crashing and "dark ages," World On Fire comes off as more adult contemporary with its mid-tempo delivery and lush, quasi-ambient layers.

McLachlan rarely veers from the piano-driven melodies, but Stupid ventures into a grander strings-meets-guitar format that loses its steam slightly near the conclusion. Drifting, which contains nuances similar to her smash Angel, moves seamlessly into Train Wreck, a soulful tune that is the first and only trace of upbeat pop in the vein of Building A Mystery or Sweet Surrender.

While there are few guest appearances, Quebec cellist Jorane features on several songs, while Jim Creeggan of Barenaked Ladies adds bass on the gorgeous Answer, a hymn-like effort that instantly draws the listener in despite the subtle but unnecessary percussion.

There are some songs that miss the mark, particularly Push and Time, the latter sounding too rushed too often.

Meanwhile, Dirty Little Secret's narrative is self-explanatory, but it's a perfect example of the overall product -- strong but not mind-blowing. (More on Sarah McLachlan)

Track Listing
1. Fallen
2. World on Fire
3. Stupid
4. Drifting
5. Train Wreck
6. Push
7. Answer
8. Time
9. Perfect Girl
10. Dirty Little Secret