Miss Freddye
That Kinda Woman (Bonedog Records)
Miss Freddye may have a few things to be blue about -- lying men, lonely tours -- but being ignored probably isn't one of them. Reminiscent of Ida Cox, with the rock 'n' roll orientation of Muddy Waters, Miss Freddye's new album That Kinda Woman seems barely able contain the power of her voice. One suspects that she's best heard live, but this is a rousing stand-in.
-- Margaret Welsh
John Vento
Wayward Soul (self-released)
John Vento's collection of post-9/11 Springsteen-style dad-rock is uneven, but Wayward Soul is not without its inspired moments. (I'm on the fence about the mandolin-driven cover of Alice Cooper's "Be My Lover.") Polished production and exceptional musicianship carry the record through its lulls, but the Morphine-esque "Up Jumps the Devil, Pop Goes the Weasel" may stop you in your tracks, and have you reaching for the repeat button.
-- Margaret Welsh
The Incline
Wait! (self-released)
In this, their third venture, Mount Washington brothers Marc and Brad Schneider have come up again with charming, sunny, bright, sometimes vigorous intimations of innocence. Marc takes the lead on vocals, but never raises his voice confrontationally. You'll hear the acknowledged influences of The Beatles and Bob Dylan, plus suggestions of Tex-Mex -- even a catchy rap. They're on the right track.
-- Gordon Spencer
The Incline CD Release 10 p.m. Sat., March 19. Frankie and Georgie's 4 Wood Grille, 5832 Forward Ave., Squirrel Hill. $5. 412-422-5027
