Iris DeMent

Iris Dement is as great a songwriter as she is a singer, and is on her way to becoming an even greater force for positive social change. She speaks up for what she believes in, in every way she can, but mostly through songs that can evoke the full range of emotion, from tears to laughter.

Both the woman and her songs are straightforward in a charming, humble way that leaves each member of the audience feeling as if they've experienced a personal connection to her. Middle-aged now, her stage costumes manage to be both sedate and outrageous, featuring understated colors like beige, black, and white, but in attention grabbing forms, like skin tight dresses and large chunky shoes.

The overall effect complements her songs perfectly. Those songs include audience favorites like "Easy's Gettin' Harder Every Day," "Mama Was Always Tellin' Her Truth," and "Hotter Than Mojave." She does numbers from the beginning of her career right up to the present, most presented in a bluesy, folksy, style that speaks straight to the heart of her listeners.

Her concerts can run from anywhere between ninety minutes and two full hours, and she will usually take the time to meet and greet her fans afterward, signing autographs. So it's a full night's entertainment, but you'll still be sorry to see it end.