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Album Review: Lisa O'Kane   am i too blue

Be honest. Often, listening to country music by independent artists is a little like hobbling with a stone in your shoe. It can be painful, awkward, and, at times, unbearable. Thank goodness for fresh, vibrant talents like Los Angeles-based Lisa O'Kane.

Am I Too Blue(Raisin'Kane) is a debut from a lady who may dwell on the musical fringe, but, be assured, this is no wannabe with a guitar.

Firstly, there's the voice. O'Kane is a persuasive mix of interpretive boundary-pushing wrapped in a determined confidence. It shows itself repeatedly over the range of this album.

Then, there is the song choice. O'Kane marries vocal passion to the penned-credentials of, amongst others, Lucinda Williams(Am I Too Blue", "Pineola"),legendary Hank Williams("My Sweet Love Ain't Around"),KT Oslin("Wall of Tears"),former singing postman John Prine("All The Way With You"), and the enduring Bill Monroe("Old Cross Road Is Waitin").

This former resident of Fish Camp (a 36-strong population town in Yosemite Valley, California) isn't solely hero dependant, though; she contributes with one co-write and one self-penned offering.

The first, the hard-hitting "Romance & Finance", is a mandolin-enriched ode to the way of the world. The song, the album's opening track, is vibrant and with its edgy drum beat, compliments a showcase of ballads, bluegrass and rock-tinged movers.

"The Valley", O'Kane's evocative original is the last of the 12-tracks. It closes the show, beautifully, on a "take notice" album, which is already starting to claim industry ears and interest. "Valley" tells of O'Kanes' growing years and her eventual exit from home. Then, on her return to her small town home (an annual event), her renewal. Painted with pure and melodic images, the song shares much with the remembrance: "It wasn't heaven, but it was paradise."

The joyous vocals from this mother of two girls don't need further elaboration. Likewise, the fitting song choices don't require scrutiny - astute, listener-grabbing programmers are already wedging several into playlist rotations.

However, for the naturally inquisitive, the standout tracks for this reviewer are the haunting "Am I Too Blue", the boppy "Romance and Finance", the twang-driven "Wall of Tears", and the inspired-for-lovers "Wanting, Wanting You".

Beyond O'Kane's polished vocals, there is a supportive backbeat of musical royalty who bring connection and talent to their performances. Scott Joss, fiddle player to the stars and ten-year member of Dwight Yoakam's band (he's also a former California State Men's Fiddle Champion for three consecutive years), makes a welcomed showing, so, too, does Yoakam pianist, Skip Edwards.

Making a cameo appearance in the lineup is Teresa James: one of the hardest working and in-demand session singers on the American circuit. Former drummer with JJ Cales' band, James Cruce, shares the snare with David Raven, and Edward Tree, who along with O'Kane spent a year song-sifting for this album, holds the dual portfolio of guitarist and producer.

There are several other lumninaries in the lineup including guitarist Billy Watts, bassist Taras Prodaniuk from Lucinda Williams' band, and respected vocalist Kellie Coffey - all adding to a strong rhythmic presence.

This is a stellar debut. It's polished and professional on every level. And, because of it, Lisa O'Kane is walking, rather than limping. Comfortably. George Peden

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