Recognize the power of women

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Some of the coolest happenings last week centered on talented Lowcountry women.

First and foremost, who has seen the new video by local singer/songwriter extraordinaire Cary Ann Hearst? If you haven't, check it out at myspace.com/caryannhearst, and man, is this thing good. Hearst received national exposure in July when her song "Hells Bells" (not to be confused with the AC/DC tune) was played during the closing credits of HBO's popular series "True Blood." The video for that song was produced in Los Angeles in July and features collaborator/husband Michael Trent, as he and Hearst weave a dark tale of good love gone wrong. This extremely well-done video should be on MTV or whatever channel actually shows music videos these days, if there are any. Regardless, congratulations to Cary Ann Hearst on her most recent and spectacular work.

I had the pleasure of attending my first local roller-derby event last weekend as the Lowcountry Highrollers presented their last home bout of the season dubbed "Southern Hostility." These ladies don't mess around, and bump, bash and bruise like nobody's business. It took a second to grasp the concept of the bouts and the rules, but most of those who nearly filled McAlister Field House on Sunday knew exactly what was going on, enthusiastically cheering their favorite teams and players. If you haven't experienced it, roller derby is an ideal family outing, not to mention affordable.

Last but not least, after witnessing yet another show by local rock band The Shaniqua Brown (Tin Roof in West Ashley last Saturday), singer Rachel Gillon just might be the best frontman (frontwoman? frontperson? What's the politically correct term here?) in the Lowcountry. She wails, owns the stage and commands attention. The rest of the band ain't shabby either, and with Gillon at the helm, The Shaniqua Brown could really be going places.

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Sometimes perseverance or hard work goes unrecognized and it's a shame. Cary Ann Hearst is a music veteran at this point, and given her great voice, songwriting ability and overall superior talent, she should be one of the biggest names in the alt-country/Americana genre. Maybe the recent national exposure and new video is a turning point to bigger and better things. Hearst's endurance reflects her passion for her craft and she deserves any luck that comes her way.

Also, I don't know if most people, including me before I went to see them, comprehend the training and hard work roller-derby girls put into their craft. These women are intense. While I'm sure many have their sugar and spice side, roller derby is tough stuff, and the wear and tear they put on their bodies is likely no small sacrifice. The Lowcountry Highrollers' next home event will be in January. I encourage you to check it out for yourself, not only because it's a good time but to give props to these under-recognized women athletes.