Big Backyard is the debut album from California-based singer/songwriter Michelle Bloom, and it is a wind swept, semi-nostalgic look back to her own childhood, and her children's. The music reminds this listener of the heydays of 70's acoustic and electric folk, with inspiration clearly drawn from Carole King, Laura Nyro and even Holly Near. While these influences are evident, Bloom's instrumentation, production and singing voice are still firmly rooted in the present, with little rockers like "Circle Dance" "Something Happens" (The Campfire Song) and the lyrical "Dancing Moon" sounding like they would not be out of place on a Sheryl Crow or Julie Miller album. Highlights include the community celebrating "Big Backyard," "Sunny Side Up" which is a fun wake-up song, and the delightfully random pictures of "Equal Day Equal Night." One song in particular, "Underneath a Spectacular Sky," is a fine example of her uncompromising and image-rich songwriting. A treasure trove of talented musicians help Bloom flourish. For repeated listening on road trips, in family rooms and of course, backyards big and small.