Northern California-based ambient folkie Karry Walker first surfaced in 1996 with the self-released Informaldehyde, but she really began attracting attention two years later as a finalist at the annual Sisters Folk Festival Songwriting competition. She also earned a series of honors at the first Sierra Songwriters competition, taking top prize in three categories including "Most Unique Songwriter, " no doubt a nod to her deft blend of acoustic guitar and subtle electronic shadings; signing to Ubiquity, Walker released Lipsbury Pinfold in 1999. ~ Jason Ankeny