Angi West is preparing for a big night. On February 12 she will celebrate her 30th birthday. She'll also celebrate the release of her new CD, Opportunity Cost. The fun begins at 9 p.m. at The Grey Eagle in Asheville. Tickets to the big birthday/CD release party are $8. We though you might want to get to know Angi a bit better, so present our five questions with Angi West.

Tell us a bit about the new CD, Opportunity Cost, that you will be releasing in this month.

 The new album is a departure for me. It was produced by Floating Action's Seth Kauffman and it is truly a marvel when two different but soulful people get together to work on something. I wanted to make something that was unapologetic and indulgently musical. I think we accomplished that. The songs encompass my range of feelings about growing up, God, struggles with my poor vision, and trying not to be an alien.

For those readers who have not heard your music, how would you describe it?

I am a pianist with a background in opera, but a love of traditional ballads. My singing is slightly strange and sometimes can range many genres. Some people liken my music to Carole King, Joanna Newsom or Tori Amos. Those three ladies are very different so I think the comparisons are very subjective.

Other than making music, how else do you spend your time?

I am an accountant and lover of all things local. I am planning to get my Ph.D. in economics. I love fundraising for wonderful charities and being very busy.

What are your general thoughts on the Asheville/WNC music scene?

Oh no, not this question! I have a love/hate relationship on our local music scene. The bar is often set very low, but when someone wonderfully talented emerges I like to think they rise to the top and present Asheville music in an amazing light.  My local musical mentors—Seth Kauffman, Michael Libramento, Ami Worthen, and Tyler Ramsey—have talent that reminds me to keep practicing.

If you were to star in an infomercial, what real or imaginary invention would you like to promote?

I would like to promote a sort of instant transporter. I love being other places, but hate traveling to get there. I could write a really good jingle/song to get people psyched about using it, but it would need to cost a ton, cuz you don't want everyone jamming the air waves.