Tracy Bonham: Prepares the mother of all sophomore releases.

No Burden For Bonham Singer/violinist putting wraps on sophomore effort

News of Tracy Bonham's participation in this year's Lilith Fair probably shocked few fans of the Boston-based singer and violinist -- but her performances should provide some noteworthy surprises.

During her stint, which runs July 8-15, Bonham will likely debut songs from her as-yet-untitled album due on Island Records this October. Bonham told Rolling Stone Network on Wednesday that this project represents a stepping stone in her developing career.

"It's richer, more musical," Bonham said. "It shows growth, both emotionally and musically. I'm playing a lot more violin and I'm singing better."

Bonham -- who achieved notoriety with the 1996 hit single "Mother Mother" -- is currently wrapping up work on the follow-up to her major-label debut, The Burdens of Being Upright, at New York's Magic Shop with producer Mitchell Froom and engineer Tchad Blake. Froom, whose pasts credits include fellow Lilith Fair veterans Sheryl Crow and Suzanne Vega, joined the project at Bonham's request.

"He has integrity and chooses to work with artists who have the same passion and honesty," she said. "Mitchell's a classically trained musician, as I am. He isn't afraid to break the rules; in fact, he would rather."

Soul Coughing's Sebastian Steinberg reportedly makes a cameo appearance on the disc playing upright bass, but will not likely perform with Bonham when she takes her solo act on the road later this summer.

ANNI LAYNE