While You Weren't Looking
ThoughRyan Adamscommanded the spotlight in the acclaimed late-'90s alt-country groupWhiskeytown, fiddler and harmony singer Caitlin Cary played a prominent role in shaping the band's sound and soul. Even so, it's a stunning surprise that her full-length solo debut (followinga five-song EPin 2000) stands head and shoulders above Adams's two highly touted post-Whiskeytown efforts. Working with several fellow Whiskeytown alums plus a stable of ace players from her North Carolina home, Cary leans a little less toward her old band's country-rock and a little more toward the tasteful folk-pop ofLinda Thompson(whose rich voice Cary clearly echoes). Renowned producer Chris Stamey turns in the finest work of his career, crafting upbeat tunes such as "Shallow Heart, Shallow Water," "Thick Walls Down," and "Pony" into unforgettable gems, while fashioning an exquisitely understated backdrop for quieter songs such as "Fireworks" and "Sorry."--Peter Blackstock