The new Alison Krauss?
12/02/2003
(4 out of 5 stars)
"This is an enjoyable recording of very pretty almost-bluegrass songs, all written by the singer with the Alison Krauss-like voice, Becky Schlegel. The lyrics are generally passable but unremarkable, with subjects ranging from sappy love songs - and her sweet voice goes well with these - to the joy of country life. On occasion they're remarkably touching ("Red Leaf") or remarkably annoying ("Sister Sam", which seems to be written from the point of view of someone who approves of the petty conflicts often arising between siblings about who's the favorite or who's not doing their share of taking care of the aging parents). But you wouldn't buy this for the lyrics; it's the gorgeous sound that takes liberties with traditional bluegrass, either by being more spare or by occasionally adding a forbidden instrument like an electric or pedal steel guitar. All in all, while comparisons with Alison Krauss are inevitable, and to my taste Ms. Schlegel is a tiny notch below Ms. Krauss as a vocalist, this is an enjoyable CD that should appeal to fans of modern bluegrass. If you like Alison Krauss, it's certainly worth a listen."
Brilliant compositions with a gifted voice
Lee Thielee | Fort Collins, CO | 05/03/2002
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I am stunned by the brilliance of this CD. Although it is a little dark,( especially Little Janie about a family caught in a flu epidemic, according to the Minneapolis Tribune) it really showcases the talent that Becky Schlegel shows as a composer and as a singer. Her voice is absolutely hauntingly beautiful. I would recommend it to anyone, and I have given it as a gift to several friends."