Trooper Long

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Set in Detroit, Dinner in America has lovable characters you just want to root for, though they are social misfits. There's an underlying theme centered on family dynamics and the way folks interact around a table; many viewers will relate to the way certain characters interact at the dinner table. Director Adam Rehmeier did some amazing things shooting in Michigan in a short amount of time with a relatively small budget. Just when you think things are looking so serious, the comedy ensues. The primary characters experience much personal growth. Punk rocker Simon is sick and twisted, but honorable, and capable of showing love. Patty is loyal, and in the process of finding her own voice. Lots of things happening in this film -- it's loaded with cool music, and there's character development that would make John Waters proud. I plan on seeing it again. Its sure to be a cult classic!

As Shelby Lynne pays tribute to Dusty, she executes each track on the Just a Little Lovin' album flawlessly. This is a great songbook to work with, and Lynne does not disappoint. Her interpretation of these classic tunes is as good as any you would expect from a 1960s soul music artist. But yes, Lynne is a country artist. So what? I would describe Lynne's vocals as more styling than just singing. She doesn't rush through the material. None of this set fits in with the formulaic young country radio. The tone is soothing and quiet when the melody calls for that; but she knows when to belt out a hook when the time is right. Her phrasing is lovely. For me, this album is one of those few times that country and soul and pop collide (with a sprinkling of jazz arrangements in the mix). This could have been released on Blue Note. In my Mp3 player, I can shuffle any of Shelby Lynne's tracks on this effort with the best of Gladys Knight, or Norah Jones, or anything on Ray Charles' Modern Sounds in Country and Western Music. That's how good this is.