Gina Villalobos
Miles Away
Laughing Outlaw

Gina Villalobos best asset is her rough-hewn voice, it's a little like Lucinda Williams little sister or a female Rod Stewart. That's praise since he was ace once. Her new effort is not unlike "Rock 'n Roll Pony" which saw her stake her claim to the Americana throne convincingly.

"Hard Enough" is a reflective lament which features her pipes at their best. "I know I'm hard enough but I feel my heart too much" she laments. The Bee Gees-penned "If I Can't Have You" was a hit for Yvonne Elliman ages ago. Villalobos gives it a spin that sacrifices the hook for a more plaintive take.

"Face on the Sheets" has the swaggers of seventies Stones and a great melody. "Don't Defeat Me" is a powerful song, Villalobos singing as strongly as ever. Miles away is a fine record.

Copyright © 2007 Anna Maria Stjärnell