Jackalopes, Moons & Angels (A Collection: 1985-90) (Jackalope, 1998)

Austin is very good at keeping secrets. That city is loaded with talented singers and musicians that music fans elsewhere never get to hear about. Kimmie Rhodes has been singing down there for nearly 20 years. She has quite a following in Texas and even in Europe, but remains unknown in most of the U.S.

This disc, a collection of recordings made from 1983-88 (released 1985-90), probably won't change any of that, but it's not for lack of merit. Rhodes has sung with and had songs recorded by Willie Nelson, although the most famous duet partner she gets here is Joe Ely (not that there's anything wrong with that). Legendary musicians Johnny Gimble and Jimmy Day are also present, along with many lesser known but equally talented folks.

The early material leans more to swing and honky-tonk, while the later numbers are slower singer/songwriter songs. The singing, playing, and songs are all fine. This album isn't going to set the charts ablaze, but it's won't disappoint anyone who makes the effort to find a copy.