The Sacred Spud

A quick glance at the cover of Kathleen Williamson's The Sacred Spud lends a clue to what's on her mind: the spud is shaped like a heart. The lead track, "Looking for a Savoir," is an easy-rolling song that evokes a number of early-'70s songsmiths (Sandy Denny, for instance, on Sandy). Hal Rugg's pedal steel adds a country tinge, while the vocal harmony inserts an ethereal feel. "Shake the Demon" has a similar laid-back feel, with Williamson unfurling a story of love gone wrong. The song, at six minutes, is rather long, but it works thanks to Williamson's relaxed delivery and, as with "Looking for a Savoir," the addition of Lisa Oley's background vocals. There's also a clever, upbeat travelogue titled "American Dream" with a nice arrangement of electric guitar, steel, piano, and accordion. These songs, however, are just one of The Sacred Spud's many approaches. There are folk songs, like "Good Ole' Fashioned UnAmericana," a tribute to being unfashionable and non-commercial, and "My Hometown," a contemporary protest song. There are also a number of blues, including "Don't Make a Scene Kathleen" and "Brother Can You Spare Ten Bucks." Williamson has crafted several fine songs on The Sacred Spud, highlighted by tasteful arrangements and a solid production, and the album should appeal to those who appreciate eclectic singer/songwriters. ~ Ronnie D. Lankford, Jr., Rovi