We stepped out the other night to Wild Iris Books / Wild Words Cafe to see a live performance by the local singer,  songwriter, and guitarist Amanda Garrigues (end rhymes with Syracuse) who lays down a great groove. Her songs and melodies are alternatively moving, touching, and inspiring; her lyrics reflect a unique blend of poetry and philosophy; and her voice offers endless delightful surprises in tone, inflection, and phrasing.

Unlike some other “folk” artists, her guitar is right out front, ringing out beautifully crisp, tasteful, and melodic rhythms that serve as a friendly antidote to today’s over-produced, generic music that feels distant and sterile in comparison.

The simplicity, richness, and purity of her voice and guitar evoke power and independence, hope and optimism. Visit her website and give a listen.

0074c_080201.jpg

0048b_080201.jpg

0062_080201.jpg

0082b_080201.jpg

0078b_080201-2.jpg