Spotlight: Various Artists

Respond
PRODUCER: Charon Devereaux
Signature Sounds 1247
As this two-CD collection displays, New England's folk scene is experiencing its most fertile period in 40 years. This showcase of contemporary Boston-area female singer/songwriters is uncommonly moving in its content. It's also poignant and empowering in its aim: to raise money and awareness for Respond Inc., a nonprofit agency that aids women and children victimized by domestic violence. A third worthy facet of this 27-track effort is the exposure it affords new faces (Linda Sharar, Lori McKenna, Jules Verdone) as they take their place among rising stars (Jennifer Kimball, Merrie Amsterberg, Barbara Kessler) and noted artists from the region (Patty Larkin, Catie Curtis, and Juliana Hatfield), all of whom make fine contributions herein. Indeed, Sharar's "Any Kind Of Love," McKenna's "Fireflies," and Verdone's "Turnaround" are songs that can launch careers. Contact: 1-800-694-5354; www.signature-sounds.com.