This Lonesome Song (Self-released, 1998)

Becky Schlegel sings of a longing for simpler times with the opener and title cut. Supported by understated guitars, fiddle, banjo, bass and mandolin, the Minnesotan's's sweet and tender vocals are applied to simple and straightforward bluegrass and country songs about values passed down from generation to generation, in much the same way that the bluegrass musical tradition has been carried along.

Although this five-piece outfit skillfully accompanies Schlegel on all 14 songs, its primary purpose is in support, instead of occupying the spotlight. Except the brief exception of "Fireball Express," the gentle vibe created by Schlegel's lightly quivering voice is never interrupted by showy musicianship. But with wisely selected songs such as "Used To Be" by Bill Monroe, and "You Beat All I've Ever Seen" by Kostas, it'd be a shame to let any instrumentation distract the listener from their subtle charms.

Schlegel may not have the kind of attention-grabbing vocal chords of the similar sounding Allison Krauss, but this still makes fine company for anybody who likes to spend time with rootsy and traditional sounds. (3515 194th St., W, Farmington, MN 55024)