She has such an evocative voice, such an easy, masterful delivery. Margo Valiante (you pronounce all the syllables) was the last person we booked for our Threadgill's showcases back in March. The last few slots fell like Pachinko balls, I had people want to do what was left, one after the other until there was just the one open, and it was gone. Margo, unknown to me at the time, was working with the legendary and wonderful Rich Brotherton. He produced her EP I Can't Pray which hit the street about a month ago. She moved to Austin from Jackson, WY in autumn of 2008. Austin is such a Mecca for those that hear the muse; reminiscent of young actors relocating to LA, of young theater folks being drawn to New York.

Me, I am loving the blues-infused soulfulness creeping back into the music that I listen to. It is deep and rich and moving. Margo Valiante is touring now, maybe she's coming to a town near you. Hope so, cause we were SO impressed when we saw her!

- Jessie Scott