Cris Williamson- “Real Deal” – Legendary singing and songwriting sensation, Cris Williamson, has placed another gold mark of a release to her already long line of releases with her latest CD, “Real Deal”. This pioneer of women’s music has opened up another pearly gate for female musicians everywhere, starting with her debut album, “The Changer and the Changed” that was release back in 1975. To date, her debut album still stays strong on the selling charts for Independent record companies everywhere. Two decades later, it’s still nearly impossible to talk about the women’s music movement without mentioning legendary great, Cris Williamson. In “Real Deal”, her personality just shines from the cover, showing Williamson with her head back laughing to the assortment of downright gorgeous tracks that reside on the release. She sings about a washed up, worn out boat called, “Mercy” with descriptive lyrics and a beautiful harmony to the title song, “Real Deal” about being comfortable with being yourself. Each song is pure Williamson with a raw, edgy and completely stunning aspect to the music. It’s an amazing change in era from her first release which was basically a toe in the water for women’s music to a full head on splash into a more realistic setting in today’s industry. “Real Deal” will make dedicated fans proud and new listeners to Cris Williamson’s music gasp in delight.

CHT Pick: "Songbird" Reviewed by Heather Corcoran

Artist website: www. www.criswilliamson.com

Jon Dakota- “Learning to Fly” – Jon Dakota takes his life experiences and puts them into his own words..as crazy as they may sound. His use of his harmonica throughout the tracks is the raw talent that makes the CD, “Learning to Fly”. This country-blues-folk crooner adds humor to his lyrics and song all the while multi-tasking with a finger picking guitar and rapid harmonica playing. He adds his own political musings in the song, “Crazier than a Fruitcake” about his opinion on the new Presidential election, “He’s Crazier Than A Fruitcake, He’s Sicker Than A Dog, He’s Dumber Than A Box Of Rocks And Slippery As A Greasy Hog”. Jon covers all sorts of topics in his songs, from a couple who married, not quite a good match in the title song, “Learning to Fly” to a plea from a broken heart in “Let’s give it one more try”. If you’re looking for a fun, toe-tapping, musical experience, you will find just what you’re looking for in Jon Dakota’s “Learning to Fly”.

CHT Pick: " Learning to Fly " Reviewed by Heather Corcoran

Artist website: www.www.jondakota.com

Sarah Bettens – “Scream” – Former singer for K’s choice Sarah Bettens has broken away from her former spot as lead singer and taken the stage for her first solo move in her introduction release, “Scream”. This rock star is responsible for the hits such as “Not an Addict”, “Almost Happy”, and “Believe” which topped the International charts with Gold and Platinum success. Sarah can shout about her latest work, “Scream”, a rock-pop combination of electrically charged lyrics with Sarah’s marvelously lush and erotic vocals. “Scream” has everything from a giddy love song called, “Stay” to an electrical-political musing in “Not Insane”. A beautiful, gentle ballad called, “Turn Around”, a song about trying to leave things in the past, but always with a backward glance. This song completes the album, giving fans a taste of Sarah’s assorted song combination. There will be no looking back for Sarah with her new musical move. “Scream” is destined for another successful jolt on the music charts to be heard worldwide.

CHT Pick: "Scream" Reviewed by Heather Corcoran

Artist website:www.sarahbettens.com

Steve West - “Songs of Love and Other Natural Disasters” – Funny man Steve West brings a bit of comic relief to his debut release, “Songs of Love and Other Disasters”. Singing on personal experiences, this singer/songwriter does not pick a certain direction with his music. He’s covered the long, winding highway of jazz, soul, blues, folk and a curve of rock in the release. Each song has it’s own combination of instrumentation, making each song fun & lively. One song not to be missed is Steve’s cover of Bobby Freeman’s “Do you want to Dance”. Steve’s vocals on this track make it purely enjoyable! An excellent CD to relax with, its comfort food for the ears!

CHT Pick: " Dancing Lady " Reviewed by Heather Corcoran

Artist website: http://members.aol.com/steviewestmusic

Frank Carillo and the Bandoleros – “Bad Out There” – Need a healthy shot of the blues? Frank Carillo is there for you buddy. Carillo and his Bandoleros at times sound like Stevie Ray Vaughn and at others “Love & Theft” era Bob Dylan. There’s a strong nod to blues musicianship here yet Carillo manages to keep the lyrics a bit less sad feeling than most blues influenced artists. The band really knows how to move smoothly between styles, most notably the jump from the guitar and harmonica lead heavy “Watcha Gonna Do (When the Levee Breaks)” into the vocal led singer/songwriter styling of “Just a Photograph.” There a number of really good songs here but in the same breath I’ll have to say that there are some songs that just don’t cut it as well. The upside in my opinion is the fact that this is a well produced CD and that carries some of the songs. Regardless this is one of those CDs that is good but you’ll quickly find your favorites and go right to them on repeated listens.

CHT Pick: " Just a Photograph " Reviewed by Mark Fisher

Artist website: www.frankcarillo.com

HiFi Sky – “Music For Synchronized Swimming in Space” – This band is not at all what I expected, although I’m not quite sure what I expected. Labeling themselves as “drone pop,” I totally am missing the “pop” part. Irregardless, at 2 A.M you’d be hard pressed to find a better CD to pop in. “MFSSIS” is a lush, richly textured album full of space and quiet. Alexandra Scott’s voice is absolutely mesmerizing as it gently leads the music through various soundscapes that lend themselves to introspection and meditation. The band is at their most captivating on songs like “That Bird” and “Belle Louisiane” but the majority of the CD is very solid. This is far from background music, it’s the type of music that requires your attention and thought, it’s perfect for coffeehouse clientele in my opinion. Be sure to check this one and give it some time to grow. You’ll be glad you did.

CHT Pick: " That Bird " Reviewed by Mark Fisher

Artist website:www.hi-fisky.com

Jeff Black – “Tin Lily” – Wow, has anyone else noticed that acoustic based music with a bit of a country tinge coming back around? One of the reasons why is this amazing artist. Jeff Black (with whom this is my first experience, although it is his fourth album) is easily one of the most prolific and talented songwriters I have ever heard. Imagine John Mellencamp, Emmylou Harris, and Bruce Springsteen in a blender with Kelly Willis and Wilco. If you can imagine that then you have a good idea of what to expect from Jeff Black’s “Tin Lily.” Although songs like “Hollow of Your Hand,” “Hard Way Out,” and the album’s closer, “A Better Way” are musically wonderful to listen to, it’s Black’s prolific lyrics and his grovely, common man style voice that truly captures you. There’s something about his voice that just stirs your soul, in much the same way artists like Johnny Cash, James Taylor, and Bono do. It would be a crime to miss out on this CD if you like beautiful music with poetic down to earth lyrics. It does have a bit of a country feel, which some music lovers may not take to, but it fits the music perfectly. This is one of those CDs that makes you feel like you’ve known the artist for a long time.

CHT Pick: " Hard Way Out " Reviewed by Mark Fisher

Artist website:www.jeffblack.com

Brenda Weiler – “Cold Weather” – She’s that little secret you want to keep to yourself, but the success of Brenda Weiler is spreading rapidly through the Indie circuit and chancesare, she won’t remain a secret for much longer. As a winner of multiple Minnesota Music Awards its no wonder this little folk singer has such a strong following to her music. Performing at over packed theaters and intimate coffeehouses across the country Brenda Weiler is pulling in new fans with her intimate songs. Her fourth release, “Cold Weather” offers up a steaming mug of honest lyrics into the most compelling songs. She’s quickly following in the footsteps of such artists as Dar Williams and Patty Griffin, but she’s soon to leave them in the dusk. Her music is fresh, haunting and catchy it’s just enough to get under you skin and leave you wanting more.

CHT Pick: " Faucet " Reviewed by Heather Corcoran

Artist website:www.brendaweiler.com

Brianna Lane – “Radiator” – Heartache is no stranger to folk singing sensation, Brianna Lane. Her second release, “Radiator” far exceeds any expectations fans may have had judging from the stunning success of her debut release, “On Rooftops”. Bringing in a more mature sound, Brianna’s songwriting has gotten stronger, more intense, she’s not afraid to take a chance with her lyrics. Expressing a vulnerable side in her love songs with lyrics like “Would you fall in love with me if I was strong enough to let you be if I loved you harder would you take away the water” from the track, “Downpour”. It draws in memories of lost love, ones who got away and daydreams of lusting after the one you want. It’s relaxing sort of CD with Brianna’s voice gracefully carrying each tune smoothly like the soft, gentle wind dancing in and out of the valley’s in the mountains. “Radiator” may be the cure-all for broken hearts or for dreamers who never stop believing. Whatever the case, it’s a masterpiece that radiates.

CHT Pick: " When I get there " Reviewed by Heather Corcoran

Artist website: www. briannalanemusic.com

Elke Robitaille – “Naïve” – Dread locked folk singer Elke Robitaille has a lot to sing about. Songs about cheating, lying and dishonesty, “Naïve” is an emotionally sensitive outlook of the broken hearted. Elke Robitaille may wear her heart on her sleeve, but she doesn’t just give it out to anyone nor does she lie around and cry over a broken heart. Nope. This chick won’t take the drama anymore. She’s done. It’s full of “my bags are packed by the door, few final words exchanged before the door closes for the last time, songs. Listeners will appreciate the therapeutic songwriting Elke has put into this album, the lyrics are soulful melodies that are catchy, drawn out and enough to leave you full until the CD starts again.

CHT Pick: " Gravity " Reviewed by Heather Corcoran

Artist website: www.elkemusic.com

Joan Enguita – “Two Suitcases” – With her bags packed and ready for the next journey, Joan Enguita opens, “Two Suitcases” with sudden ease. The first few notes that belt out of Joan’s mouth are the hook, line and sinker that is destined to capture listener’s everywhere. The opening song is playfully flirty and fun as Joan dances with the lyrics in a one on one showdown of authority. Joan’s stunning vocals is the selling point that will have you thanking the heavens above for producing such an angelic sound. “Two Suitcases” is hard to close; it’s jammed pack full of a folk sound, united in harmony with country and Celtic. From start to finish, Joan holds the audience’s attention with one of the most versatile voices around, giving them the performance they so rightfully deserve.

CHT Pick: " I Need To Hear It From You " Reviewed by Heather Corcoran

Artist website:www.joanenguita.com

Kama Linden – “Uninhibited” – Pop/Rock has a new Princess…one with a bit of a grudge, but that’s how we like it. Kama Linden (aka Angrichik) uses her songwriting as therapy, identifying what went wrong with the relationship, her response to it and how she’s going to get the hell over it. Her aggression takes presence in the words, using her sultry voice to win over music lovers. The songs are sexy, dominating and an answer to every question you had about life and love. Kama seduces her listeners with her silky voice and sets the tracks against a riveting beat, worthy of having you out of your seat to dance to every song. This is one artist you want to watch for. Or watch out for. She’s sure to bull dozer over you with her hit album, “Uninhibited” for she holds nothing back in producing such an ecstatic sound!

CHT Pick: " Don’t Shut Me Out " Reviewed by Heather Corcoran

Artist website: www.kamalinden.com

Kara Kulpa – “Any Given Day” – Midwesterner Kara Kulpa showcases her mountain folk style music in her release, “Any Given Day”. It’s a long, winding road of deeply personal lyrics with an interesting combination of instruments ranging from a mandolin, pie tin, shoehorn and a mountain dulcimer. Bringing a unique experimental sound to her release, Kara’s harmonic voice brushes against a sharp edge blade that cuts through her lyrics with a hypnotic overtone. Pulling up again to address personal loss, heartache and the misunderstandings of love, Kara creates an open invitation to her listeners to join in on her traveling journey of understanding. The opening song, “Grace” quickly levitates this young soulful songstress, giving the listener an earful of purely beautiful, alto singing. She’s the queen of wanderlust with her traveling lyrics and unknown destination journey. This is the CD you want in your player while you drive down a deserted highway at 2 o’clock in the morning.

CHT Pick: " B-Rate Musician " Reviewed by Heather Corcoran

Artist website:www.karakulpa.com

Matt Morrow - “The Places You Don’t Know Are There” – On a chilly night, Matt’s voice can warm over any room with his soft, brooding melodies. Gorgeous, expressive and fluid songs flow endlessly in Matt’s sophomore release, “The Places You Don’t Know Are There”. It’s an exploration of love, heartache and a slow mental breakdown that brews hauntingly across the lyrics, it will turn you into an insomniac. I especially love the recording. It’s extremely raw and edgy; you can feel every note as it strikes the chords with such intensity. The songs are so personal, you almost feel like you’re eavesdropping on Matt’s innermost thoughts. This guy is a musical Casanova, with husky vocals and breathtaking almost romantic songs in a heartbroken way…but that’s a good thing. A simple, darker song, “Burgundy & Black”, Matt is alone with his piano as he croons out lyrics such as, “The way she spun your world around, she takes you to the place where the flowers kiss her face”. The piano plays at will, breaking every few notes for that pause that has you gasping for breath. His songwriting is incredible, the songs are elegant and the CD is something you must have in your collection for any mood.
Matt is my editor’s pick for the month of October. Listen to his song, “Joanie” on myspace!

CHT Pick: " Joanie " Reviewed by Heather Corcoran

Artist website: www.mattmorrow.net

Kate Campbell – “Blues and Lamentations” – Kate Campbell is no stranger to fans of acoustic, blues, country and Americana music. “Blues and Lamentations” incorporates various forms of traditional American music into a smoothly flowing album full of the blues and overflowing with gritty, honest lyrics, the kind that aren’t so easy to come by these days. The strong acoustic base here is probably the most impressive part because when I think of the blues I think of wailing electric guitars. Campbell delivers it all as if she was on a backporch in Mississippi though. There are a couple of brighter sounding spots that will definitely appeal to singer/songwriter fans however, especially “Freedom Train” and “Wheels Within Wheels.” The country sounding “Fade to Blue” is the album highlight for me, Kate’s voice is really hit and miss on the album in my opinion but she sounds perfect on this one. When the chorus rolls around you really feel it. All in all I like this album a lot, I’m still deciding if I like Kate’s voice but the music is wonderful. I love the acoustic, keep it simple sounding, approach to the overall sound.

CHT Pick: " Fade to Blue " Reviewed by Mark Fisher

Artist website:www.katecampbell.com

Matt Elliot – “Drinking Songs” – Imagine a dark, smoky, coffeehouse in dark and dreary England. Now imagine a man in the corner playing his sad and borderline depressing songs to the half-caring crowd. Such is Matt Elliot (known to many as the Thirdeye Foundation). This album is dreary and dark and heady and poetic and beautiful and odd all at the same time. The gorgeous, yet sparse, instrumentation leads a “woe is me” style vocal that sounds somewhere between a pre-gravel throated Tom Waits and The Cure’s Robert Smith. Many of the songs here, most notable the more than 7 minute anti-sing along, “The Guilty Party,” are largely instrumental and bring a thought provoking atmosphere to “Drinking Songs” overall sound. “The Kursk” has some of the most unique vocal use I have heard in a long time- it sort of reminds me off Pink Floyd as it sounds like a wailing choir yet it is restrained at just the right moments, therefore keeping it from being able to take over Elliot’s single vocal. It’s hard to explain but it’s very cool. All in all this album isn’t for everyone but if you prefer a somber coffeehouse atmosphere to the upbeat acoustic politico, this will definitely catch your attention.

CHT Pick: " The Guilty Party " Reviewed by Mark Fisher

Artist website:www.thirdeyefoundation.com

Red Molly – “Red Molly” – This four song EP from makes me love country music. Not many artists can say that. There is something wonderful about these ladies blend of traditional country, bluegrass, and even hints of folk. The EP consists of two covers, “Are You Lonesome Tonight?” and the traditional “Darlin’ Corey” as well as two originals in “Yellow House” and “Long Island Cowboy.” The cover of “Are You Lonesome Tonight?” is absolutely stunning. It makes you feel melancholy all over. The originals fit nicely with the covers; if you didn’t know the cover songs it’d be easy to mistake this for four originals. If you love music made by tremendously talented musicians then you owe it to yourself to check out Red Molly. Red Molly’s songs would be as comfortable on tour with the Dixie Chicks as they would be in a coffee shop. I can’t say enough good things and can’t wait to hear more.

CHT Pick: "Are you Lonesome Tonight?" Reviewed by Mark Fisher

Artist website:www.redmolly.com