You Oughta Know : Brandi Carlile

Brandi Carlile was ultra-private while making THE STORY. Ensconcing herself in the woods outside of Vancouver for 11 days, the young singer emerged with a passionate reconstruction of her past decade, all vintage instruments and sepia-toned emotions. Though Carlile's vocals - a Patsy-Cline-twang helps round out some warm folk grit - are front and center, it's the music she creates with her band that makes the most impact. From the gospel sway of "Josephine" to the plaintive breaks and soars of her voice on the album's title track, Carlile's telling a personal story well worth listening to.