For her follow up, Dark Hearts, Simple Treasures, Serrano has enlisted the help of anumber of friends to help flesh out her folk-based songs, increasing the running time while keeping the inspiration. Local favorite Duane Eby adds his acoustic guitar and "effects,"while Mike Patterson lends his tones via electric guitar and upright bass. Last but not least is Mike Andrews whose restrained percussion propels the songs gently along their paths. Together these minstrels co-wrote a delicate full-length album loaded with songs that explore the simple joys of a lonely life. "In The Corner" opens the album, the first of many songs featuring mid-tempo folk-based acoustic guitar with hand percussion. Immediately following is "Imaginary Man" where the perfect man is described and then questioned with "Well is he really out there? / If he's there where can he be? / And if he's really out there / Is he looking for someone like me?" A more prominent bass, passionate vocals, drum kit and zesty guitar licks adds a rock edge to "The Phoenix," with its familiar tale of rising anew from ashes. The closer, "Someone For Everyone," brings in a hint of country twang, appropriately delivering lyrics such as "They say there's someone for everyone/ But that's not something I believe." Unfortunately, fans of the flute might find themselves disappointed, as it is only featured in two songs, "The Dawn," which bears an especially nice arrangement, and the enjoyable "Rodeo Queen." Serrano seems to be unable to escape her folk roots, not that she's wanting to try. Her vulnerable, tuneful vocals are at home in the singer-songwriter style, and her tasteful guitar playing is perfectly suited for these songs of sorrow.

Just as most of us who grew up in the '70s, Cathy was influenced by such folk artist as Joan Baez and Carly Simon, to name a few. Upon her arrival here in Fort Wayne Cathy began to play in local pubs and, if need be, for free. Her selftaught style of guitar playing and great vocals brought a refreshing style to her folk songs that remind me of days and years gone by. The more Serrano played, the more the Who's Who of Fort Wayne's music world paid attention. Serrano was now establishing herself. After numerous successful performances locally, she decided to release her first CD called "Native Flute: Share the Wind." The CD was a success. Played by her instrumentally on a Native American flute, it was a haunting and a spellbinding collection of songs that earned her great reviews. Her new CD, "Dark Hearts Simple Treasures" has the makings to be another success.