— Courtesy of surfdog records

Judy Collins  Bohemian:  One of the most pristine voices of the 1960's and '70's is back with an homage to the Southern California folk scene she helped create. Collins wrote four new songs for the album, highlighted by the tender "In The Twilight." The real strength of the record, however, comes from the eclectic choice of cover songs, including Joni Mitchell's "Cactus Tree" (a beautiful duet with Shawn Colvin) and a playful take on "Pure Imagination" from the "Willie Wonka and the Chocolate Factory" film. Her voice may not be as pristine as it once was, but it's strong — and sweet.

Lalah Hathaway  Where It All Begins:  If you're looking for contemporary R&B that matches the quality and passion of the classic era, this album is a great place to start. Following up on 2008's Grammy-nominated and top 10 Self Portrait, this collection features a steady mix of upbeat grooves and slow jams, guided by Hathaway's confident and sultry vocals. Standout tracks include the moving ballad "Lie To Me" "You Were Meant For Me," which is the first time she has covered a song by her legendary father, Donny Hathaway.
 

Shelby Lynne  Revelation Road:  Shelby Lynne has been in and out of the spotlight since she snagged a Best New Artist Grammy for her sensational 2000 album, I Am Shelby Lynne. But she never stopped recording. In fact, the country and blues singer released two new records just last year, and a critically acclaimed Dusty Springfield covers album in 2008. Revelation Road, though, stands out for the intimate feel of the production and personal nature of the songs, both of which highlight Lynne's raw and striking voice.
 

Chris Isaak  Beyond The Sun:  From his hairdo and onstage persona to the stripped-down sound of his band, Chris Isaak has always worn the influence of the early Sun Records sessions of Elvis, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis and Carl Perkins on his sleeve. In fact, Sun founder Sam Phillips praised Isaak's talent and called his music "damned honest" a few years before Phillips' death. The compliment spurred Isaak to record this tribute to his heroes. It's no surprise that he doesn't veer too far from the original takes of songs like Cash's "Ring of Fire" or "Great Balls of Fire," the Lewis classic. After all, he's been practicing that style his whole career.