Amy Lashley

Travels of a Homebody Wannamaker Records****

To Baby Kitty and Iris the Dog in their east Nashville home, Amy Lashley would be better known as one half of a partnership with class warrior and noted songsmith Otis Gibbs. Her biog states that "this album is filled with light-hearted stories of self-deprecation and doubt, of working-class families blooming despite life's hardship, stories of loss, a longing for change and even a love song, or two". All true, and it could add that Lashley has a gorgeous, creamy, bluesy voice that is heard to best effect on Homebody Blues, though it's also pretty good on her country-folk songs, which make up the bulk of this understated, emotionally warm album. Gibbs produces and plays, but this is his partner's turn in the spotlight. However, don't expect to see Lashley under a real one any day soon, as she suffers from bouts of stage fright and now avoids performing. See amylashley.com

Download tracks: Homebody Blues, Wrong Side of Gallatin