Watching Waiting

'Nothing is off limits anymore...' Written over two years ago, these lyrics by 18 year-old song-writing phenomenon Carley Baer are finally beginning to ring true. Originally joining with bassist classmate Amy Dwyer, the two quickly built a unique acoustic rock sound based in folk guitar and emotionally driven harmonies. Drummer Cayla Baumann, guitarist Tim Coley, and violinist Bridget Donegan joined shortly thereafter and the five Milwaukee based teens became recognized as 'Samoa.' Samoa was well known throughout local and surrounding communities and played numerous local venues, including the occasional (and much loved) basement show. They played in Milwaukee's Rave Bar and also opened for Chicago's highly acclaimed Bumpus. Bound by their love of and commitment to their music, college students Carley, Amy, and Bridget moved on to form 'Io Donna,' incorporating a variety of genres into a sound that is uniquely their own. The three were introduced to and formed a strong partnership with local independent music producer Victor Lazzaretti of Elder Smith Records. Together, they've created a debut CD entitled 'Watching Waiting' that beautifully highlights the band's unique modern-folk sound. Carley's soaring vocals and poignant lyrics are complemented by Amy's subtle vocal harmonies and Bridget's melodic violin accompaniments and fills. From the jazzy style of 'Storm' to the tender melodies of 'Yesterday's Song', to the pure rock of 'Only One,' Watching Waiting is sure to appeal to a wide range of audiences. Continuing to write and play remains a high priority for the trio, as they work to make a name for themselves with the release of 'Watching Waiting.' With the positive response they've received so far, it seems as though, for Io Donna, nothing is off-limits anymore.