The Austin-based duo of Christine Albertand Chris Gage had both cultivated individual followings with several independent, solo releases before joining forces. Vocalist Albert left her birthplace in upstate NewYork in her late teens, making her way West and developing both her songwriting skills and singing voice. She released three solo albums, including Texafrance, which drew on her French heritage as well as the music of her adopted home state. Accomplished on many instruments, including guitar, mandolin, and dobro, the South Dakota-native Gage had been a sideman and session player, first hitting the road at age fifteen. Since uniting as Albert & Gage, the pair have released three albums; 1997's Jumpin' Tracks, Burnin'Moonlight, and One More Christmas, the latter two issued in 2001. ~ Tom Demalon