Never underestimate the power of proximity. Growing up in two epicentres of culture, fashion, and music (New York City and Paris), it isn’t exactly a surprise that Diane Louvel ended up a creative artist; what is staggering is the level of mastery she’s achieved in her craft as a singer-songwriter. Weathering the storm of losing her brother (and the loneliness that followed) provided more than some meaningful tunes: it armed her with purpose. The result is spritely, almost effervescent Americana, rooted with a strength only a working woman’s hands that tills the land could have. And with a voice like Joni Mitchell by way of Neko Case, it’s just a matter of time before fans of classic bards like Laura Nyro and Willie Nelson (and contemporaries like Father John Misty and Lana Del Rey) get wise to this rising star in the circuit.