
"Given how the current glut of Americana artists has devalued the field to sub-prime mortgage crisis levels, to come across one that restores your faith in the genre is some kind of miracle. San Diego’s Carolann Ames is a born faith healer. The Grand Prize winner in the 2004 John Lennon Songwriting Contest, she’s touched by angels as her rich, supple voice (a cross between Linda Ronstadt, Emmylou Harris and Shania Twain) soars skyward. But in such confessional numbers as the strummy ‘70s pop of “Broken Down Dream,” countryish desert-rocker “Lavender Sky” and the bluegrass flavored “Bridgewater Creek” you can tell she’s done a lot of livin’ and probably a fair share of sinnin’, too. Backed by a sharp crew of players (secret weapon: fiddler Melissa Harley), Ames traverses the Americana spectrum without repeating herself a single time, and it’s this journey she takes you on that’ll be your ticket to heaven. By Fred Mills , Harp Magazine April 2008
Carolann Ames has a rebel’s soul and a poet’s heart. She is a mutiple award winning songwriter (including Grand Prize in the 2004 John Lennon Songwriting Contest) with a distinct southern influence. Her creative sonic flamboyance is rare and creates a roots-based sound that is both distinctive and radio-friendly. All 12 songs on So Long Abilene, scheduled for release to radio February 2008, CD have something special to offer with Carolann’s rich, expressive vocals and vibrant instrumentation. ”Almost Lucky”, “Broken Down Dream” and “Lavender Sky” all illustrate an unusual outlook regarding life on the road and are immediately unforgettable. The moody and intense “I remain”, written about the sudden death of Carolann’s father, showcases her unique style and sonic approach Originally from Texas Ames & her band Silverlake released a new CD April 2008 and are touring nationally throughout 2008.
-Winner: Grand Prize in the 2004 John Lennon Songwriting Contest
-Honorable Mention 2008 Song of the Year
-2007- Honorable mention Billboard Magazine
-2006 Finalist in Singer/Songwriter Awards for WeAreListening.com
-Semi Finalist 2006 ISC Inernational Songwriting Contest Nashville, TN
-2006- Honorable Mention American Songwriter Magazine
-2006 Honorable Mention Singer/Songwriter Awards WeAreListening.com
#26 June 2006 on Americana Radio
-2005 Honorable Mention for Mountain Stage New Song Festival for Performing Songwriter Magazine
-Nominated for Best Americana Album in the 2005 San Diego Music Awards
-Winner 2005 CD of the Year Award Kweevak.com
Press Quotes; " Ames has it for sure- that indefinable it that's associated with artistry and star power" Kim Reuhl “Ames is one of those rare triple threat artists. Besides being an electrifying performer, she is also a top flight writer and producer,” Lonny Brooks of Taylor Guitars. “There’s an overwhelming sense of professional imminence here”,Simeon Flick, San Diego Troubadour.
“I don’t know if Carolann’s voice could be any better… a great delight for the ears. This song SHOULD be all over the airwaves,” Nick Kane Director of A&R for IGF Publishing regarding Nothin’ But a Heartache. "Underneath the Texas Sky is a slower more reflective song with vibrant instrumentation – especially the jam at the end; and Ames singing is stellar. West Virginia features delicate yet intricate instrumentation blending perfectly with Carolann’s vocals which are subtle but powerful. Ames is a voice to be heard,” Laura Turner of Kweevak.com. "What a breath of fresh air", Paste Music Magazine
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