I've only seen Melissa Etheridge perform live only once, and I wasn't even there to see it. Still, she performed "Come To My Window" at the whenever-Grammys to bring down the Shrine. Audience reaction and her enthusiasm itself made apparent that she was meant to perform.

Yes I Am is another launch pad for her live performances (she toured right before and right after its release). Toggle on your surround sound, hike up the volume and close your eyes; while its radio-friendly material gives some glimpses into its live potential, it doesn't go all the way most of the time.

The over-longing in "I Will Never Be The Same" sounds too contrived to be taken seriously. This same forced quality in "Ruins" and "Talking To My Angel" disappoints the initial expectation of depth. While Middle America rockers "Come To My Window" and "All American Girl" are still exciting, it's not the same without an audience getting into it.

Still, songs like "I'm The Only One" and "Yes I Am" sound great in their guitar-focused production. "If I Wanted To" drags a bit but it's catchy enough to make good airplay. The most effective track, however, is "Silent Legacy" with its guiding voice and moving message of teen sexuality oppression. It delves into what Etheridge could do, with or without a crowd to connect with.

I'm not really inclined to buy Your Little Secret (her latest). But I'm all hyped up for her concert tour.

Rating: B+

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