The following is an interview by Ray with the very talented singer/songwriter/guitarist Vyktoria Keating of recent Tull tour fame:

Ray - Hello Vyktoria, and thank you for doing this interview with us. I enjoy your music a great deal! On your new live CD, "Something About Driving," you talked about your avid interest in Jethro Tull. Obviously, the spirit of Tull pervades your music, but what other groups/artists have been influential in your musical aspirations and in the development of your unique style?

Vyk - Kate Bush, Mike Oldfield, Rush, Nick Drake, Richard Thompson, Genesis...

Ray - At what age did you begin playing guitar, and do you play other instruments as well? Have you taken formal guitar lessons, or are you self-taught, and who are your favorite guitarists?

Vyk - I began playing guitar in several phases, first plucking a few tunes around the campfire at age 10 at summer camp, then as a confused teenager in my bedroom at age 13/14, then somewhat seriously at age 19 in my first rock band, playing electric on a borrowed stratocaster. Some of my favorite guitarists are: Martin Barre, Pierre Bensusan, Richard Thompson, and Michael Hedges.

Ray - You have great vocal control and range. I have heard others compare you to some of the great female vocalists of our time: Kate Bush, Stevie Nicks, Melanie, etc. Who would you say your style is most similar to?

Vyk - I adore both Kate Bush and Stevie Nicks. I don't know if I sound like them. I like it when I get compared to male vocalists like Geddy Lee of Rush.

Ray - What are your current plans for future CDs and tours?

Vyk - I am currently working on writing and arranging while I am in England this Fall. I plan to start recording a new CD with Andrew Giddings producing this winter. I currently have no touring plans.

Ray - Have you ever thought about putting together a band, or do you prefer more of a solo career at this time?

Vyk - I have had bands in the past, but always seem to stick with playing solo. I love the freedom of solo performance. Although, there is the possibility of doing some shows with Andrew Giddings on keyboards. Just a duo, but the sound would be magnificient. (I agree! - Ray)

Ray - Getting back to Jethro Tull, it must've been a blast touring with this great, legendary band that you admire so much. I'm sure you had hundreds of memorable highlights during the tour, but if you could pinpoint one moment that really stood out and epitomized that whole "dream come true" experience for you, what would it be?

Vyk - I think it really hit home the night we played in Baltimore. I walked out on stage and my family was right up front in the audience cheering like mad. It was a very moving moment for both me and them. Also, the first time Ian played flute on "Do We Entrain." That was right out of a dream!!

Ray - Now that you've had a chance to tour around and see many cool places, do you still feel Sedona, Arizona is the place for you, or would you like to explore other areas?

Vyk - I love Sedona. I am currently experimenting with living in England. I also love the Blue Ridge mountains of Virginia (where I am from). I think I presently live in 3 places! :-)

Ray - Will you continue to sell your CDs exclusively via your website, or will you look for distribution to get it in the stores, etc?

Vyk - My CDs are available almost exclusively from my web site. I would like to have wider distribution. I would like to someday sign with a nice record label that understands my music and can promote and distribute it. (not too much to ask?)

Ray - You obviously are building up quite a fan base now. In closing, is there anything else you'd like to say to your fans (and soon to be fans)?

Vyk - Huge thanks for your support, emails and kind words. Keep in touch and best wishes to all.

Many thanks to Vyktoria...for those of you who'd like to get more info on this awesomely talented musician, be sure to check out her website at www.vyktoria.com...we highly recommend all three of her CDs!!!