RADAR: Grace Woodroofe

Five years ago, a handful of song demos from then-16-year-old singer/songwriter Grace Woodroofe found its way into the hand of fellow Aussie Heath Ledger via the actor's sister and the rest, as they say, is history. Brought by Ledger to L.A., Woodroofe also met folk/rocker Ben Harper who agreed to produce her 2010 debut album Always Want utilizing his backing band Relentless 7 in the studio. "Astonishing", is how Harper describes Woodroofe, a word he says he uses "maybe once a decade," and we think he's on to something here. An indescribably expressive voice and some moody, quietly powerful songs -- tinged with blues and jazz overtones -- make Always Want, finally arriving stateside on January 24 (Modular), a particularly compelling listen. "The way I write is sort of confessional and honest," says Woodroofe, "the same way that blues could be described." Check out the video for "I've Handled Myself Wrong" after the jump and listen to "H.", a songs she wrote in memory of the late great Ledger. And catch Woodroofe on tour with Ben Harper this fall.

Grace Woodroofe - "I've Handled Myself Wrong" (from Always Want)

Grace Woodroofe - "H." (from Always Want)