Maia Sharp at Third and Lindsley

An intelligent and openhearted singer-songwriter, Sharp has quietly been climbing toward a wider breakthrough for several years now. Her new album Echo is designed to strike that epiphany: Poppier and more ornately produced than previous albums, the record includes a guest turn by Bonnie Raitt and ace rhythmic support by legendary drummer Jim Keltner. The pleasant surprise is how well Sharp rises to Don Was’s empathetic yet aggressive production, displaying an energy and personality that enlivens her work. Sharp’s songs are covered by a wide range of artists, from Cher to Dixie Chicks to Keb' Mo' to Carole King to Trisha Yearwood. Live, she’ll prove she’s as powerful an interpreter and entertainer as she is a songwriter.
Thu., Oct. 8, 10 p.m., 2009