Here's a look at some of the best American folk, bluegrass, alt.country and folk-rock tunes to be released in 2007.
This song was outstanding when done originally by Tom Waits, but Alison Krauss' clear high soprano makes a remarkable departure from Waits' original deep, husky drone. The song in this version (from
Raising Sand) is just exquisitely well-done and well-adapted.
Susan Werner's
The Gospel Truth raised more than a few eyebrows this year. It was a great experiment in creating gospel music for agnostics, and "Sunday Mornings" was one of the best songs from it. Calling to mind childhoods in church, the song explores exactly what agnosticism comes from, and does so in a poetic, purposeful way.
Spook Handy's best gift is in writing topical songs, and "Do More With Less" is a good example. Opening the disc, the tune critiques Baby Boomers and pulls out some seriously fierce fiddle solos.
Xavier Rudd is quite gifted at his one-man-band set-up, and "Fortune Teller" (from
Food in the Belly) is just a really groovy tune to bounce around the room to.
This classic civil rights song was reprised on Kim & Reggie Harris' outstanding tribute to the music of the era,
Get on Board.
