For those not in the know, Rachel Garlin is a singer-songwriter whose character-filled songs have been noted for their vivid, lyrical imagery and themes that have been taken to heart by fans all around the world. With her songwriting skills having been recognized at festivals such as Kerrville, Telluride, and the South Florida Folk Festival, she was also honored with first place in the Newport Folk Festival Talent Search.

Today we are welcomed back into Garlin's world with the brand new release, Wink at July, a delightful new recording that features 12 new songs with musical arrangements ranging from solo vocals with acoustic guitar to a full electrified band.

The album begins with 'Gwendolyn Said,' a track that kicks off this perfectly sound collection of storytelling in fine style. A song that draws inspiration from the poetry of Gwendolyn Brooks (1917–2000), that's followed by the mid-tempo drift of 'Accordion Song.' Garlin then gently guides us through a full-band homage to the artist who "gave graffiti love and graffiti loved back," 'Hey Keith Haring.' Haring (1958–1990) was an American artist and social activist whose work responded to the New York City street culture of the 1980's.

With Wink At July recorded in San Francisco with producer JJ Wiesler (Matt Nathanson), it's no surprise to discover that other musical contributors on the album include: Michael Urbano (John Hiatt, Smash Mouth), Prairie Prince (Journey, The Tubes, The New Cars), James DePrato (Chuck Prophet), and longtime collaborators Green, Kate Isenberg, Jon Evans, and Julie Wolf.

The slight skiffle beat to 'This Winding Road' is next, before the sedate 'The Sea You See' gives way to the poetic lyrical love letter to the liquid known as 'Colorado Rain.' The fun, short tale of 'Up on a Ladder in Boots' is next, and is backed by both the solo intimacy of 'Flying Together' and then, for my money, one of the best tracks on this new album, the truly delightful 'Spin.'

The descriptive strengths of Wink At July continue onwards, as strong as ever, even as the album comes to its final bend. Bringing together folk, rock, roots and bluegrass, the teacher-turned-troubadour first delivers the dusky 'Stranded, then 'Dear Friend,' before the album is brought to a close with the title track itself, 'Wink at July.'

www.rachelgarlin.com