Amazon.com
The most kid-friendly of Michelle Shocked's three simultaneous June 2005 releases, Got No Strings brings the spirit of swing--from western to supper-club--to a collection of Disney soundtrack tunes. The steel guitar of Greg Leisz helps transform the familiar "A Dream Is a Wish" into a honky-tonk waltz, until the sprightly fiddle of Gabe Witcher takes a break that recalls the 1930s' Hot Club of France. Shocked imbues "When You Wish upon a Star" with a breathy sophistication, gives "Spoonful of Sugar" a bluesy tinge, and has never sounded more tender than she does on the lullaby "Baby Mine." Producer/guitarist Nick Forster of Hot Rize and band provide sprightly support throughout. From the hipster scat of "To Be a Cat" to the concluding yodel of "Spoonful of Sugar," Shocked and her musicians sound like they're having fun. --Don McLeese
Recommended Michelle Shocked Discography
 Texas Campfire Tapes |  Short Sharp Shocked |  Captain Swing |
 Arkansas Traveler |  Kind Hearted Woman |  Deep Natural |