Nights in the Pacific Northwest can be long, dark, cold and grey, especially in winter, and even on the Emerald Island.

Maybe that’s why singer-songwriter Mandy Troxel decided to call her recently released full-length album, “If Only Words Could Keep Me Warm”. Then again, maybe Troxel, who hails from Orcas Island, had something completely different than the weather in mind.

In either case, when you earn the kind of praise that follows from a critically acclaimed musician the likes of Susan Obsborne (a fellow Orcasite, no less), you can figure that you’re pretty much on the right track without having to give too much thought to the name of your latest recording.

“Mandy Troxel is the real deal,” Osborne said. “A songwriter who writes simply and elegantly of the bittersweetness of life and relationships, and a singer whose clear, unadorned voice cuts to the heart.”

On second thought, it probably wasn’t the weather after all.

You can catch this rising star before she launches into the musical stratosphere when Troxel, who weaves strands of folk, bluegrass and country western into her musical tapestry, steps into the spotlight of the Isle Be Jammin’ Performer’s Showcase on Thursday, May 22. The show starts at 7 p.m.; seating is limited. Tickets, at $10, can be purchased in advance at Isle Be Jammin’, 310B Spring Street, call 378-5151 for tickets or information.

You can also find out more about the artist, who’s been playfully dubbed “Island Mama Americana,” and her music, by visiting her website, www.mandytroxel.com.

Or, take to heart what folk artist Jan Krist has to say about Troxel’s songs: “…the feel of an old friend, pulling the listener into heartfelt conversation with lyrics both wistful and wise.” That might be enough to get the curiosity all toasty warm.