Album Notes

Leeann Atherton, originally of South Carolina, came to Austin on vacation from Nashville ten years ago. She has been living and performing in the Austin area ever since.

Her voice is beyond boundaries, warm with a mellow southern charm and perfectly matched with the songs of Michael Stevenson. Mike was raised in San Antonio, immersed in the rich musical heritage of Texas. From dance halls to family jams, he developed a fondness for the traditions of the Texas sound fully embracing it in his writing.

Leeann first met Mike in an Austin roadhouse where she was performing. After the show he offered her his tape. Leeann said she couldn't resist his smiling eyes or the beautifully written songs that she had been unknowingly waiting to wrap her voice around. The porch pickin' began and the calls to a handful of favorite musicians including guitarist/producer Rich Brotherton were made.

The ultimate band with Rich Brotherton at the helm, Lady Liberty unfolds like a Sunday drive down the highways of the heart. Timeless and steeped in Texicana, the original songs familiar as they are fresh, shine as a bright spot on the ever-changing landscape of American roots music. This immensely talented group of guest artists adds depth, variety, and texture. "Lady Liberty" reflects the spirit of the community from which it emerges from sunny celebrations of home and family to complex, ethereal ballads.

Relaxed, smooth melodies swing with cleverly layered lyrical insights. Each song is a potent expression, capturing the creative spirit unique to Austin.

"It's the picture of true liberty a mood enhanced by the slow-burn blues of Atherton's delivery.an older and wiser, got-no-time-for-heartaches-feel; Bonnie Raitt has her bucket in the same well...A first rate album about the worth and cost of freedom..." - Jay Hardwig, The Austin Chronicle "Leeann's warmth and dexterity make a splendid match for Stevenson's pensive subtle lyrics" - John Conquest, 3rd Coast Music " I love this CD, it will be airing on my shows. Leeann has a strong, smooth and distinctive voice and radio friendly production, well written songs by Michael and lots of variety" -Country Eastern West Eddie Russell Aired in Spain, Ireland & Texas Yesterday on my show I played "Drift On", Leeann and Toni Price sound great together. Another favorite cut is "Homers". - Mike Trynosky, Not Exactly Nashville Five Stars - Paul Yonkers, RootsTown/Belgium Five Stars - Magnus Eriksson, Swedish Daily AUSTIN CHRONICLE MUSIC AWARDS '98 - ROOTS ROCK