My introduction to Clare Diane’s music occurred outdoors, under a sound system and other circumstances that, to say the least, were not the most ideal for fully enjoying music. Despite all that, Diane’s solid and assured vocals rang out impressively. An original tune she sang -- “An Angel in the Sky” - caught my attention, and set me on the path of fandom that’s inevitably followed by anyone who comes across this hidden gem of a vocalist.
   
Diane’s voice puts me in mind of an Emmylou Harris or a Joni Mitchell -- there’s even traces of Loreena McKinnett and Laura Nyro. Yes, she feels right at home with a country-blues number (“Cry, I So Lonely”), a soft and pretty Joni-like retro-tune (“Rebel in Disguise”) -- a ballad, a rock guitar-driven number, but I was also pleasantly surprised by her clever, reggae-inspired, flip of the Stray Cats’ script (“Perhaps We Were Cats”).  In a quite cool way, “Runaway With Me” also has a retro-feel, poignant and cliché-free storytelling, appealing harmonies, and a timely twist of a message. 

The soothing “Angel in the Sky” is accented by smart guitar and allusions to spiritual escape under the wings of a higher being from whom answers to the world’s problems are addressed. And “In the Ocean,” with its too abrupt conclusion, will leave you wishing it was a much longer jam, that the guitar had been allowed to wallow on a bit more, that Diane’s fluid vocals, indeed like a soothing and engulfing ocean, had been free to flow far beyond their four minute mark. 

Like “How Could I” -- with all the earnestness of an early Linda Ronstadt number -- all the tracks are instantly catchy and accessible, and the more-than-capable musicians fill out the arrangements with a kind of synergy that bespeaks experience and warmth with the singer -- and a true fondness for playing with her.    

If you come across Claire Diane’s CD, don't be thrown off by the jewel case’s exterior art; neither cover does the lovely Diane nor the alluring songs inside full justice. Contained within are compelling, self-penned tunes that resonate with a refreshing substance and likeability. I’ve played Diane’s CD almost daily since getting it. “Runaway” is definitely an effort that deserves not to be slept on.
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The more I listen to this CD the better it gets.  I have had the cd for about 5 days and listened to it probably a dozen times.  I keep getting new favorites.  Initially Hold On demanded my attention followed by Masquerade and Runaway with Me.
Now Angel in the Sky keeps playing in my head.  I think Cry, I so Lonely and In The Ocean will be next...Thanks Clare!
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this cd is a total hit - everyone i know has it! if you people who are reading this don't have it, well, your loss!  you should get it! it really is worth it!
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This CD of yours is totally awesome!
i got like 10 of them last year, they are really awesome!
i just wanted to tell you, you have got a GREAT voice!
From Stephanie, your #1 fan!
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