"Melissa's debut disc, "Rearview," is a graceful, sure-footed, old school tour-de-force that is sure to please fans of the likes of Joni Mitchell, Joan Armatrading, Tracy Chapman and Sheryl Crow." - Jim Musser Iowa City Press-Citizen. Caught somewhere between folk rock and soul, Melissa Faith Cartoun's self described "Alt Alt" music will leave you guessing, and longing for more. Her vocal control and range is striking, and provides a wonderful vehicle for her honest, thought provoking lyrics. She is able to tell a story not only with her words, but also with her powerful voice. Her presence is pure and honest, and allows her to create an easy closeness with her audience no matter what the venue.  Melissa came into her own while attending Vanderbilt University in Nashville, TN. A regular performer at campus bars, she quickly developed a following. Soon she was playing at local clubs and coffee shops for impressive crowds. Melissa often played her guitar on the street corners of down town Nashville to earn extra money. Melissa recorded one of her songs with friend Mike Gordon of the band Phish, and the song entitled "25" went on to win a place in the John Lennon Song Writing Contest. Melissa's versatile voice also led her to sing back-up vocals for a local rhythm and blues group "Eighty One". As a junior at Vanderbilt, Melissa won the schools prestigious award for best singer/songwriter of the year and also won the schools "Battle of the Bands" competition which granted her a spot in schools annual music festival "Rites of Spring." The event has hosted acts such as Dave Matthews, Black Eyed Peas, and Guster, to name a few. Melissa released her debut album "Rearview" in August of 2007.
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