Beautiful Broken was written in a transitional and complex time. It's about coming to terms with ugly truths and learning to make better choices. Featuring artwork by Kathy Kavan, the album reflected a time of great personal reflection and manages to be both contemplative and spirited, with the lyrical introversion of Luna and Autumn Round juxtaposed against the playful harmony of Beltane and Steve Reich tribute Eighteen.
This was the last album that Dobson co-wrote with violinist Samy Bishai before his departure from the band, and is the final exploration of the 'classic' sound of the band.