Eagle Cries
It's always interesting to learn what inspires an artist, but rarely has inspiration ranged so far, or so consciously, as it does with singer-songwriter Joanne Shenandoah. The award-winning musician is known for stylistic versatility--although she sticks close to folk-rock this time out--but every one of her dozen albums shows consistent vision. Classically trained, a former executive, and a member of the Oneida Nation of the Iroquois Confederacy, Shenandoah has a wellspring of sources to rely on. So while "Heartbeat" and "One Silver One Gold" (a standout featuring a guest appearance fromBruce Cockburn) draw on mythology and belief, "Unexplained" and "Watch Me Through the Night" are more personal. Even when Shenandoah sings of violence and conflict,Eagle Criesretains its message of peace.--Genevieve Williams