Ruby Lovett (Curb, 1998)

Perhaps real talent is making a comeback. Consider the eponymous debut by Ruby Lovett, featuring good music with a nod to traditional country roots; she co-wrote a number of the tunes and is being promoted without the presence of Playboy-esque cheesecake photos which have become almost de rigeur in Nashville.

Lovett evokes memories of old-time country greats like Tammy Wynette and new traditionalists like Patty Loveless. Eschewing the megawatt-rock, drum-heavy production of many new artists who call themselves "country," Lovett's album is mostly ballads, including a couple of gospel-tinged tunes. Good move as it showcases Lovett's vocals. This lady has got one helluva voice, rich and evocative. She infuses her songs with plenty of emotion, and if "Look What Love Can Do," a story of teenage pregnancy, giving up the baby, and the love of adoptive parents sounds especially heartfelt and genuine, it's because it is Lovett's own life story. This album is dedicated to her adoptive parents.