Goth Reviews: Ann Kerstetter

Ann Kerstetter DUKE STREET DIARY (Green Valley Recording)
http://www.annkerstetter.com

Spike: DUKE STREET DIARY exceeded my expectations. I knew it had to be good, but not this good.

Goth Woman: It was recorded at Green Valley Studios under the able-ears of Richard Rupert. The all-star musician line-up includes keyboardist Steve Adams (Jazzin’, Dave Liebman, David Rose Band), blues piano hero Greg Burgess, guitarist Alex Callenberger (Black Marble), guitarist Sean Farley, drummer Jeremy Hummel (Breaking Benjamin), Grammy-winning drummer Steve Mitchell, harmonica star Charlie Moore, and bassist Andy Seal, who submitted songs with Burgess.

Spike: What impressed and inspired me was the vocals. Kerstetter comes off like an unassuming little singer, because singing isn’t her main career, if you will. I expected something more self-indulgent or timid. Instead, when it comes down to tackling the material, she belts with a balanced confidence. The dynamics, dexterity, and personality you want from a singer are all there.

Goth Woman: Blues-wise, Kerstetter walks the jazzy, light-hearted New Orleans-flavored blues pioneered by Maria Muldaur and that ilk. DUKE STREET DIARY is fun even if you’re not into the blues.