Shelby Lynne

Lynne’s latest album begins with some ramshackle studio confusion, and it seems that the one-time alt-country "it girl” is now fully confident in following her own musical instincts. Artistically, it is definitely the right move as it was clear early on that past producers were leading her in directions that she was uncomfortable with. Instead, Suit Yourself immediately settles into a laidback, Memphis soul groove with "Go With It,” and "I Cry Everyday.” This has always been how Lynne’s sultry voice sounds best, and the intimacy she captures throughout the album is heart-melting at times. Her recent collaboration with swamp rock king Tony Joe White continues to have a strong influence too, as Lynne covers his "Old Times Sake,” and the classic "Rainy Night in Georgia.” For her part, Lynne’s writing continues to develop, as she appears to have finally shaken off the endless rehashing of her tragic childhood. Although great love songs abound, the album’s most poignant moment is "Johnny Met June,” a fitting tribute to the Man in Black’s final days. It’s proof that Lynne has firmly taken up the cause for artistic freedom, that Cash and her other idols always represented. After a shaky start to her career, Suit Yourself shows that Lynne is hitting her stride, and there’s no going back from here on in.