2011 release from the Lubbock, Texas-based singer/songwriter/fiddler. Amanda Shires is blessed with a singular, literate songwriting style and a crystalline, distinct voice that hints at her Lubbock roots. Much like Neko Case's Blacklisted and Lucinda Williams' Happy Woman Blues, Carrying Lightning is the work of an artist gaining control of her considerable talents and funneling them into a cohesive whole. From playing fiddle in the Texas Playboys at the precocious age of 15 to playing with Gwyneth Paltrow in Country Strong just this year, Shires displays the kind of talent that has garnered her praise from artists like Justin Townes Earle, DeVotchKa and Jason Isbell.

The idea was a simple one: songs for the piano and voice, recorded in one week in a bedroom, just to get them down on tape. But like all things surrounding the Dresden Dolls' Amanda Palmer-a one-woman machine who is a rock musician, artist, writer, yoga enthusiast, political activist and more-simplicity is not an easy thing to come by. Her small idea snowballed into something grand, exciting and nothing short of brilliant in the form of her debut solo album, Who Killed Amanda Palmer. Produced by Ben Folds, this is a departure from the music she creates as a critically acclaimed Dresden Doll and a major step towards showcasing her maturity as a songwriter, performer and most importantly as an artist.

After her smash hit single, "angel", peaked at #3 on Billboard's Top 40,Amanda Perez is back. Her sophomore effort is already creating a huge buzz. "I Pray (Never Forget)" is blowing up at major rhythmic stations across the country.

New Orleans-based fiddler and singer Amanda Shaw brings dazzling new energy to roots-based Louisiana music. Working with material that ranges from traditional fiddle tunes to new originals that embrace both country and rock influences, Amanda and her band, The Cute Guys, create a sound and an attitude that are both authentic and bold.