Sara Watkins, one-third of the bluegrass/folk/pop trio Nickel Creek (on “indefinite hiatus”), ushers her debut album in with “All This Time,” a track that swings in 3/4 time with subtle construction and a melancholy melody. It’s a mellow introduction to 14 songs of crafty Americana songwriting. Watkins has a couple of weapons in her back pocket with producer John Paul Jones (yes, that John Paul Jones), songwriter/heavyweight Jon Brion and former Nickel Creek band mates Sean Watkins and Chris Thile on board to lend a helping hand. But Watkins, to her credit, is an accomplished musician and songwriter in  her own right. And her sweet, clear voice carries all of the tracks with ease - including Tom Waits and Jimmie Rodgers covers. Some might say the stylistic variations are unsettling when actually, they only prove that Watkins is at home on any stage - whether it be with Garrison Keillor on A Prairie Home Companion or at renowned Café Largo in L.A.

- Susie Ulrey