Carrie Newcomer, one of contemporary folk's leading singer-songwriters, has crafted a fascinating conceptual work for her ninth album, Regulars and Refugees. Newcomer delves into the stories of the patrons at Betty's Diner, a fictitious restaurant where souls both tragic and triumphant dine side-by-side. The result is a touching, bittersweet glimpse at life, love, and humanity itself delivered with Newcomer's unerring melodic sense and rich, expressive alto. Come join the Regulars and Refugees at the diner for a visit. You won't be sorry you did.