From Kim Ruehl,
Your Guide to Folk Music.
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Tom Paxton is one of the most beloved singer/songwriters in the history of contemporary folk music. On his newest album, Comedians & Angels, he sings songs for peace, songs for friends, songs for nature, and silly songs—all with the same honesty on which he's built his career.

Highlights of 'Comedians & Angels'

The album kicks off with "How Beautiful Upon the Mountain," which pays tribute to all the people who work and fight tirelessly for the purpose of peace throughout the world. This is followed by another early highlight, "Out on the Ocean," which sings about the glory of sailing. "I'm sailing who the hell knows where," he sings. "I'm in pure emotion out on the ocean."

"What a Friend You Are" is a great tribute to strong friendship, although the slide guitar is unnecessary and a little distracting at times. Nonetheless, Paxton's sincerity never suffers, with lines like, "If I had a golden star, I'd pin it on you for seeing it through with me."

"And If It's Not True" is somewhat of a Spanish drinking song, and is impossible to not dance to. "Bad Old Days" is another tune influenced heavily by Spanish guitar, laden with nostalgia. The title track is another tribute to strong friendship, as Paxton sings strongly: "The clamor of their singing's like some mad calliope....comedians and angels, I miss my friends tonight." This gives way to "The Bravest," a heady tribute to the events of 9/11.

The Bottom Line

Tom Paxton remains as he always has been—one of America's most inspired songwriters. This album seems to be as much a tribute to his life and work—his friends, the songs—as much as it pays tribute to the strength and bond of friendship. While some of the transitions are a little jarring (particularly the final song, which seems to come out of nowhere), the album is well-performed.

Paxton is nothing if not a gifted songwriter, and there's not a low moment on the disc in that regard. This record will certainly please his long-time fans, as well as those who may be new to his work.