Trees, in Dallas, was the perfect size venue for the XOOM.com/Lilith Fair Talent Search...with just enough room left for an occasional line dance (wishful thinking on my part!).

The evening's MC, Abby Goldstein from 93.3 The Zone, led the crowd in thunderous applause as she introduced the 20 finalists.

Anna Grey's "No Sleep Tonight" was a fitting title for the pregnant woman, whom the audience tried to convince to name her child Lilith. Julie Hazzard used an Alanis Morrisette-type style, intermixing spoken word and a catchy melody. Magneeto's lead singer might be mistaken for Lisa Loeb, but don't let the glasses fool you. Their brash "Catch The Moon" is anything but a sentimental "Stay."

My personal favorite of the evening was The Shifters' funky cover of "Standing On Shaky Ground," but was followed up by the crowd and judges' favorite, Deborah Vial, who took home the grand prize.

After the grand prize winner and runner up winner, Doris Daze, were announced, Deborah Vial broke into a celebratory version of Aretha Franklin's "Chain of Fools."

• Ande Woods - Aw-some Productions
• Paula McElheney - Executive Assistant, 462
• Seymo Williamson - Owner, Trees and Gypsy Tea Room

**Note... I will not be attending the Los Angeles and San Francisco Talent Searches. Claudette Silver and Donna Westmoreland will be there on behalf of Lilith Fair and report on the night's events.

**As a final note... This has been an amazing experience for me. There is so much talent around and I want to thank everyone who submitted demos to the talent search (and those who are entering the XOOM.com On-Line Talent Search). I believe it is important to realize the opportunities and utilize the resources you have in your own communities. Thanks also to the promoters and clubs throughout North America. Remember to keep the Lilith Fair spirit alive in your minds and in your music!

Note: Carolyn is travelling across North America representing Lilith Fair at the Talent Searches and sending back daily reports.