Nicole Atkins

Bringing to mind a blend of Roy Orbison, Loretta Lynn and Jenny Lewis accompanied by melancholy lyrics, Nicole Atkins grew up in Neptune, NJ. After a few years playing in North Carolina with alt-country band Los Parasols, she returned to the tri-state area playing solo gigs in New York City. Nearly broke and ready to give up her music for a day job, Atkins struck a deal with Columbia records as a result of a strong demo and impressive performances. She released the "Bleeding Diamonds" EP while assembling her band Nicole Atkins & the Sea (guitarist Dave Hollinghurst, bassist John Flaughter, drummer Dan Mintzer and keyboardist Daniel "Cashmere" Chen). Named by Rolling Stone as an artist to watch, her full-length record "Neptune City" was released in 2007. ~ Kenyon Hopkin, All Music Guide