By By Mike Fordham

The state of Vermont is primarily known for great skiing, Phish and Ben & Jerry’s. An up-and-coming band, however, may very well be the next proud export from the Green Mountain state. Grace Potter and the Nocturnals have been building an impressive buzz with their fusion of blues, rock and soul with their sophomore set Nothing But The Water. Opening duties for the North Mississippi All Stars, Widespread Panic and the Dave Matthews Band have helped their cause.

The spotlight, of course, is on Potter herself. Her blues-inflected voice conjures up such luminaries as Bonnie Raitt, Norah Jones and Janis Joplin. Even more stunning is the fact that such an experienced voice comes from a woman in her 20s. The Nocturnals should not be dismissed, as they adeptly provide a bluesy rock palette for Potter to draw from.

The first two tracks set a laid-back, blues-drenched mood that dominates the album. A slight twang is evident on both “Some Kind Of Ride” and “Toothbrush And My Table,” but also allows Potter’s pipes to shine. The slow and subdued “Ragged Company” shows the singer exercising some restraint, which is remarkable for someone possessing such a fiery voice. That passion pops up on the blues rockers “Sweet Hands” and “Nothing But The Water II.” These upbeat cuts show the Nocturnals are based in the blues, but have capable rock ‘n’ roll chops.

“All But One” is comprised of just Potter and a piano, but some more instruments would have better accented this blues song. For a group that can switch from a slow burning blues number to full fledged rock, the straight-forward “Left Behind” feels like a band on autopilot.

Grace Potter and the Nocturnals epitomize a grassroots band, shying away from label deals in favor of word-of-mouth promotion. Already, the group has sold out shows and thousands of album sales under its belt. With a stirring release such as Nothing But The Water, it is easy to understand the underground buzz.