Beware folks - there's a really fine singer/songwriter out there and with every song of hers I listen to I love her more. Moving, witty, charming, funny and intelligent - who could ask for more?
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Love this CD. The sound is rich and the songs are lovely. The melodies, music and lyrics are wonderful and it's hard not to feel good, if not wistful, listening to this CD. I particularly like the instruments used - 5 stars to Josh Kantor, Sean Staples, and Llyod Thayer as well as Lisa herself. I really love this CD. Well done.
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Lisa Bastoni's Gather Round begins with a sad testament to peer pressure, upbringing by alcoholic parents and the lure of alcohol. Her vocals add real emotion to this lament with warm tone and genuine talent. The somber and sparse acoustic guitar is a perfect accompaniment, driving the point home.

Her slightly twangy folk vocals are appealing, full of warmth and a restrained emotion. The musical setting, with just acoustic guitar, upright bass and the occasional harmonica could come across sparse or thin. Instead it is almost lush, an engaging mixture of beautiful folk guitar and warm vocals with a slight country bent.

At time she sounds a bit like Dar Williams. Her lyrics have some of the same gently sly humor. She has the same ability to sound like a gentle child and just moments later like an introspective and intuitive adult commenting on the moments, big and small that make our lives rich and full.The lyrics tell stories, which is important to all songs, but especially those that fall in the folk genre. You can sit listening, head resting on the back of the couch. your eyes closed, and visualize the scenes described in Lisa's songs.

I'm a big fan of modern folk singers, especially female vocalists. If you are too, you'll find Lisa's Bastoni's Gather Round a very welcome addition to your collection. I'm about to make a cup of tea and settle in for another listen.
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Lisa Bastoni has a way of making even a "downer" song feel acceptable. Some of her lyrics deal with the everyday hardships of life, but she does it with such a refreshing charisma that you can't help but think that you've known this girl your whole life. From the first song to the last, "Gather Round" will leave you wanting more from this poet of song. Highly recommended!
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