Local Exposure: Shirley Bunnell • Talkin' Jackie

Local Exposure
CD Reviews of Area Musicians

By Ed Yashinsky

Shirley Bunnell
What I Need
[Independent Release]

When Shirley Bunnell had her Central Pennsylvania coming-out party last year with “The Current” on The Green Room: A Compilation, it was an all-too-brief glimpse of the California native’s talents. On What I Need, her debut CD, Bunnell truly delivers the goods. Bunnell’s voice, which slightly resembles Sarah McLaughlin, may not be extremely distinctive but it’s a perfect compliment to the strong songwriting and the solid musicians who add a distinctive flair without overpowering the songs. The startling honesty of “Pretty Pictures” along with strong imagery of “To Believe” and “Take” makes What I Need a very strong debut release.

What I Need is available at local music stores.

Takin’ Jackie
Through the Floor
[Independent Release]

Coming out of North Central Pennsylvania, Takin’ Jackie has a certain strummy-happiness that seems right at home with the Dave Matthews Band or Hootie and the Blowfish. But unlike Matthews, who creates a kaleidoscopic wall of sound via his band’s incredible musicianship, Takin’ Jackie seems trapped by the acoustic trio format. That being said, Through the Floor, still offers glimpses of some fine moments like the staccato-driven “Carry Me Away” or the bass-happy “All Good” and “Shy Away,” as well as a certain live sound that should keep H.O.R.D.E. groupies spinning in the aisles for days and days.

For ordering information, write to Takin’ Jackie, P.O. Box 84, Ortanna, PA 17353.