Illinois Update - 3/1/10

by Krista from Illinois

Growing up in Peoria, Illinois I thought my local music scene was limited to bands like Mudvayne. Never the one to thrash around, I avoided it as much as I could. I found my joy from music from people like Regina Spektor (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CBEAaKcnNRg) and Rufus Wainwright (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J_TxPQKcG7w). Recently I’ve discovered that my impressions of the local music scene have been false.

After moving to Bloomington for school, I’ve gotten the chance to meet some fantastic people. One of those is Lynn O’Brien (http://www.lynnobrienmusic.com/). Raised in Campaign, and now residing with me in Bloomington, Lynn is a true hometown hero for me. Her brand new cd, YES! was just released . In her own words, YES! is about celebrating life, taking opportunities as they come and enjoying what happens.

In a world where it seems that every day we are faced with another earthquake, scandal, murder, or just general grumpiness, Lynn O’Brien is a ray of sunshine. Her voice reminds you of a time gone past, sort of an Andrew sisters, but with a modern interpretation. Her songs at first seem frivolous and simply fun, but a second and third listen give you the chance to see her wisdom in saying YES!

Her first album, Umbrella, is just as fun, and is available on iTunes (YES! is only available locally at the moment) Both feature not only rich vocals, but a plethora of instruments, from the cello to the kazoo. Definitely worth a listen, if only to prove to yourself that there is culture south of Chicago.