Between acting on stage or screen in Ireland and getting to perform all across the planet as a member of Celtic Woman, Lisa Lambe forged quite a sturdy foundation prior to stretching out solo.

Now heading into her second album, “Juniper,” the singer/songwriter sounds all the more self-assured and stunning, easily living up to the frequent comparisons of Alison Krauss, Kacey Musgraves and Natalie Merchant.

Lambe let Chicago Concert Reviews in on the blueprints behind the gorgeous collection, a seminal artist from her formative years, contributions from producer Karl Odlum (who previously worked with famed countrymen The Frames) and finding a second home in America.

What did you learn most about yourself and your voice during the recording of your first album, “Hiding Away,” and how have you applied that to “Juniper”? 

Lisa Lambe: “Hiding Away” was a defining moment for me. It was my first outing as a solo artist. I see albums and the process of making them as living, breathing ways to record and mark the journey of being an artist. “Juniper” is my most ambitious project yet and is a reflection of all artistic roads and experiences that lead to this moment.

Who were some of your influences that shaped your current sounds?

Lambe: Music is a language and the artists I love are many. I remember being 15-years-old and discovering Joni Mitchell’s “Blue” album and it being a soundscape I got lost in. It was a defining moment for me hearing Joni’s poetic lyrics and melodic beauty soar on an album of truth. It has and does still inspire me.

You’ve described the lyrics as being “a love letter to nature.” Could you elaborate on that concept and how it shaped the album? 

Lambe: I have said often that “Juniper” is a love letter to nature, to Ireland, to love itself. If I am honest, now when I listen to the eleven songs together, it feels that it is also a love letter to change. To being in a liminal place, to transitioning and searching. Being ready and open. Being brave. As a result, lyrics written in the heat of an idea now seem to resonate even clearly with me: “Constant change in the light. Constant change in the signs. We’ll be alright. We’ll be alright.”

How did you get connected with Karl Odlum as a producer and what has he added to your creative process?

Lambe: Karl is a true artist. [He’s] one of the finest Irish musicians and an incredible music maker. I knew Karl was the only person to make this project with me. He is a true collaborator and true inspiring creative energy to be around. Working on the process was a hugely creative and enjoyable time.

Prior to this project, you debuted a cover of The Guess Who’s “These Eyes” on Broadway World. What attracted you to that song and what did you strive to bring to your version?

Lambe: What an iconic song! This song is associated with one of my first visits to L.A. to see the label. I was in the offices of Blue Elan Records with Kirk Pasich. We were talking about iconic, great songs and we spoke about “These Eyes.” I thought it was something I could do with a solo guitar and some bass. We had such fun making this.
 
American audiences are also very familiar with you given so many recordings and tours with Celtic Woman. Can you briefly trace your journey from joining to your departure?

Lambe: What a fantastic journey it was and what a way to see the world! I met so many great people along the way and lots of great followers of me as an artist. In the time I was there, I loved touring the U.S. so much. It became “home”! I greatly look forward to returning to the U.S. with my solo music.
 
Were there any performances in Chicago that especially stood out for you during your time with the group?

Lambe: All of them! I love Chicago. What a city and what great people. The Rosemont Theatre was always special.
 
In addition to singing, you’re an acclaimed actress on stage and screen in Ireland. How do those roles feed your musical muse and vice versa?

Lambe: I see my work as an actor as storytelling. Music and my songs are the same. I think having studied classical acting and having been singing since I was 3-years-old both inform and support each other to tell the stories.

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For additional information on Lisa Lambe, visit LisaLambe.IE.