The problem with acoustic singer/songwriters is they either take themselves too seriously or, at the other extreme, come off as novelty acts. Jenny Owen Youngs finds a nice balance between the two (along with some electric guitars) on her brand-new Transmitter Failure, out this week. Buffeted by thicker production and direct, honest lyrical twists, Youngs’ songwriting sounds more robust and mature than on her already excellent ’07 debut Batten the Hatches—but hopefully not so mature that she doesn’t bust out one of her legendary acoustic R&B covers. That would be a pity. -Philadelphia Weekly

As her sweetly bold and outwardly brazen melodies glaze over charmed audiences, enthusiastically clapping and moving to the cheerful beat, it’s hard to imagine that Bess Rogers grew up shy and timid, fearful to take the stage and dazzle people with her powerful talent. Clearly confidence was found, as this now seasoned performer has established a career envious to many NYC Artists, playing live venues throughout the city and touring with fellow artists and friends. Born into a melodic world by a mother who played harpsichord with a Baroque-Renaissance style group, Bess was raised with constant music around the house; learning the flute in fourth grade and eventually moving on to add guitar, piano, and ukulele to her instrument repertoire. Rogers is currently studying the trumpet, keeping her mind, music, and talent fresh with new sounds and influences.

Allison Weiss (Athens, GA) is a heartfelt singer/songwriter with a quirky charm, sharp pop sensibilities, and an avid online following. 22-year-old Weiss is winning hearts across the country with her infectiously catchy songs of love and loss and her entertaining live performances.