Rachael Yamagata [ tickets ], a New York based singer/songwriter and pianist, got her musical start in the mid-'90s while fronting the Chicago funk-fusion group, Bumpus. When she noticed her writing taking a more introspective turn, she set out on a solo career, releasing her full-length debut, "Happenstance," in 2004 to rave reviews. Finally, after four years of change, including labels and management, the folk-infused pop rocker has released her second effort, an emotional, two-part album entitled "Elephants ... Teeth Sinking Into Heart."

Yamagata is currently canvassing the country as part of the Hotel Cafe tour.