Don't dismiss Miranda Lambert just because she's had the misfortune of being a participant on "Nashville Star." This fiery Texas broad has cited Steve Earle and Allison Moorer among her influences, even to people who probably don't even know who Allison Moorer is. She's covered songs by Patty Griffin and Gillian Welch and David Rawlings on her albums, as well as "Easy from Now On," a song made famous by Emmylou Harris. She claims Merle Haggard is her hero.

And as demonstrated at her show at Pechanga Resort and Casino last night (I'm sort of disappointed that I didn't see any Indians at the first Indian Casino I've ever been to), she combines singer/songwriter sensibilities with an explosive, high energy stage performance.

Also, she has a license to carry a concealed handgun, so if you still don't like her, it's probably best to keep that to yourself.