Don't tell folk-rocker Lisa Williams that she sounds like Tracy Chapman.

That's "the most frustrating thing" to hear, Williams says.

Williams, who brings her resounding voice and atmospheric brand of music to Bowie Friday, does share with the powerfully understated singer-songwriter a passion for the acoustic guitar.

William's musical style was influenced early on by her father, a retired army colonel and Vietnam veteran who gave her a reel-to-reel he'd found in Korea, a "David Cassidy" Fender guitar and a book of chords.

As a teen, she learned chords from her friends and teachers and performed The Long and Winding Road by the Beatles at an event before the graduation ceremony her senior year.

She developed an early love for musicians like the Beatles, Jimi Hendrix, and James Taylor by listening to their music on the reel-to-reel.

"I loved rock music and pop music, " Williams said. "Being African American, that was taboo."

But Williams continued her own style of songwriting, and about six years ago began doing multi-track recordings. She has since issued three limited-release compact discs.

She was also featured in a 1998 compilation album called Burning Bush and was named a top-20 finalist for the opening slot at this year's Lilith Fair tour of women musicians.

Another memorable achievement was the strong response she drew from the crowd at the Wine Festival in Annapolis.

"I don't know if it was the wine or the music that made them give me a standing ovation," Williams said, but "it was like the best feeling. I couldn't believe it. They wouldn't let us leave... right then, my head got really big and I wanted to quit my job."

Williams currently works nights as a retail manager for Bed, Bath, and Beyond. She's hoping that after her new album, tentatively titled Capturing the Feel, is released, she will be able to begin working full time as a musician.

In the meantime, she finds searching for a record contract at age 36 to be a vexing process.

"I just want to make an honest living," Williams said, "If someone came to me and said, 'Do you want a publishing deal?' and 'We'll pay you for writing music,' that's fine. I don't have to be in the spotlight.

In her music, Williams tells tales of social affairs, love relationships, and moral issues.

"Her stories are not just stories. They're shrouded with beautiful music," says Larry Willis, music director of Mapleshade Records and a producer who has worked with Williams.

Williams is proud of the personal touch she puts on her songs.

"You can't make up any of that stuff," Williams said. "It comes from somewhere."

Williams' new album will be available through Allegro Distribution at Borders, Tower Records and via mail order, Willis said. No release date has been set.