The Far Country

On this CD:

1. Dream in White on White for string quartet, string orchestra, & harp
Composed by John Luther Adams
Performed by Apollo Quartet, Barbara Chapman
Conducted by Joann Falletta

2. Night Peace for soprano voice, chorus, harp, & percussion
Composed by John Luther Adams
Performed by Michael Cebulski, Cheryl Bray Lower, Nella Rigel, Atlanta Singers, Atlanta Singers
Conducted by Kevin Culver

3. Far Country of Sleep, The for orchestra
Composed by John Luther Adams
Performed by Cabrillo Music Festival Orchestra
Conducted by Joann Falletta

Editorial Reviews
San Francisco Chronicle, July 29, 1991
". . . wondrous soundscapes of place and the imagination. - Marilyn Tucker

The Village Voice, March 22, 1994
". . . austere, Nordic textures. . . landscape-obsessed forms. . . rich, indistinct sonorities. . . images you can’t forget." – Kyle Gann

The Far Country

The Far Country, Music, John Luther Adams, Joann Falletta, Kevin Culver, Apollo Quartet, Atlanta Singers, Barbara Chapman, Nella Rigel, Cabrillo Music Festival Orchestra, Michael Cebulski, Cheryl Bray Lower, Choral, Choral Music, Classical, Classical Composers, Classical Music, Miscellaneous, Miscellaneous Music, Orchestral, Orchestral Music

Take the Weather With You
Average customer rating:

Best Buffett CD in a Decade!!

A great CD that Buffett fans will enjoy

Another Good One!

New JB CD

Best in Years

Take the Weather With You
Jimmy Buffett
Manufacturer: RCA
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Jimmy Buffett - Live at Wrigley Field Double Header

Live at Texas Stadium

Like Red on a Rose

Still the Same...Great Rock Classics Of Our Time

Meet Me In Margaritaville: The Ultimate Collection

ASIN: B000I0QK7E
Release Date: 2006-10-10

Tracks:

Bama Breeze
Party At The End Of The World
Weather With You
Everybody's On The Phone
Whoop De Doo
Nothin' But A Breeze
Cinco De Mayo In Memphis
Reggabilly Hill
Elvis Presley Blues
Hula Girl At Heart
Wheel Inside The Wheel
Silver Wings
Breahte In, Breathe Out, Move On
Duke's On Sunday

Amazon.com

What you see is rarely what you get with Jimmy Buffett. While he may contend that he is the king of slackers, a modern day Dean Martin whipping up fizzy rum drinks under the palm trees in a silk Hawaiian shirt, this best-selling author and raconteur is actually the thinking man's party animal. His deceptively breezy lyrics and lazy charm belie a shrewd social commentator and a man not at peace with his world or his own mortality--taking well-aimed potshots at everything from cell phone culture to ancient Greek history to the threat of terrorism, as on the sharply ironic "Party at the End of the World." But having said that, all the unrest exhibited in these 14 songs makes for a far more interesting album than he's made in over two decades. Reflective, unstinting, and often nostalgic, the musician changes the tempo and the subject matter, swapping his usual languid island exhortations of alcohol and brief bikini tops for the fascinating emotional ambiguity of "Whoop De Doo," or the simple charm of "Nothing but a Breeze," which seems so autobiographical it's hard to believe that Buffett didn't write it. But the standout track is his chilling cover of Mary Gauthier's "Wheel Inside the Wheel," revealing exactly what kind of demons have been residing under the singer's ever-present baseball cap. --Jaan Uhelszki

Customer Reviews:

Best Buffett CD in a Decade!!.......2007-06-29

After the commercially successful (but disappointing to me) "License To Chill" I was afraid Jimmy may continue down the "generic, glossed up country" road. I wasn't all that excited about this CD coming out due to that reasaon but to my surprise he has released his best and most consistent CD since "Banana Wind". Alot of good stuff on here including some excellent cover tunes ("Weather With You", "Nothing But a Breeze", "Whoop De Do"). "Bama Breeze" has a country feel to it but the CD never crosses into the "mainstream Nashville" sound that "License" did. Even my wife who isn't a Buffett fan loves "Weather With You". Excellent cover of the Crowded House tune. If you are like me and didn't care much for "License To Chill" give this one a chance. Yeah it's not "A1A" or "Changes In Latitude" or "Havana Daydreamin'" (what I consider Buffett's holy trinity) but it's a solid enjoyable CD.

A great CD that Buffett fans will enjoy.......2007-05-17

This is another excellent CD by Jimmy Buffett. The CD starts with a great song, "Bama Breeze" and rolls right along with great songs such as "Take the Weather with You" and "Party at the End of the World." A really interesting song is "Whoop De Doo" that features Mark Knopfler on guitar and every song will have you singing along and wishing you were somewhere in the Caribbean or on a beach somewhere away from the daily grind.

One song, "Breathe in, Breathe out, Move on" is a insightful song about Hurricane Katrina. The lyrics are great and really struck a chord when I listened to it the first time.

This CD is definitely worth adding to anyone's collection!

Another Good One!.......2007-05-13

Just another one of Buffett's great albums! It's a bit different than Cheeseburger in Paradise or Fins but it's good just the same! If you like Jimmy than you'll like this!

New JB CD.......2007-05-08

After listening to the album once and then attending his Frisco concert, I have really grown to like this album immensely. I really like Take the Weather With You and Party at the End of the World. I think we will hear these two songs for many years to come.

Best in Years.......2007-05-01

Jimmy is an odd sort. While many country stars imitate his music style now (Alan Jackson's 5 o'clock, Kenny Chesney's last CD) Jimmy is still going the other direction trying to break into country music. 'Take the Weather...' is his latest attempt to get back into the genre. While this to me is an odd move, I think this is his best effort in the last 10 years. Bama Breeze, Weather with you and Dukes on Sunday are wonderful songs both in composition and style. And while he didn't actually write many of the songs, there is a definite Jimmy feel and vibe through the CD. This CD has become one of my favorites in our Buffett library. If you haven't bought a Buffett CD in some time, this would be a good reintroduction.

Average customer rating:

good product
Anne Murray The Best So Far
One Song Missing
The Best So Far Ann Murray
Just simply a beautiful album

The Best...So Far
Anne Murray
Manufacturer: Capitol
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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What a Wonderful World: 26 Inspirational Classics
All of Me
The Ultimate Anne Murray
Country Croonin'
Love Songs

ASIN: B000002TU5
Release Date: 1994-11-29

Tracks:

Snowbird
Now And Forever (You And Me)
Danny's Song
Nobody Loves Me Like You Do
A Love Song
Time Don't Run Out On Me
You Won't See Me
Just Another Woman In Love
You Needed Me
A Little Good News
I Just Fall In Love Again
Somebody's Always Saying Goodbye
Broken Hearted Me
Could I Have This Dance
Daydream Believer
Another Sleepless Night
Shadows In The Moonlight
Blessed Are The Believers
Make Love To Me
Over You

Amazon.com

Not exactly a country artist, since her records lack twang, and too casual and intimate to make for a standard-issue MOR pop performer, Anne Murray's phenomenally warm, smooth voice has nevertheless secured a lofty place for her in both categories--and has occasionally brought her into the mainstream (read: traditionally rock and soul dominated) pop arena. If you're not a fan, or much of a country enthusiast, it's her '70s pop hits that'll make the package worthwhile. "Snowbird" is here, as is "You Needed Me." If you are a fan, or are looking for songs that hit only on the country or Canadian charts, there'll be a lot of key stuff missing. Investigate the 3 CD Now and Forever collection. --Gavin McNett

Customer Reviews:

good product.......2007-03-09

overall a good cd kinda had songs on there that i didnt think should be and a particular song i thought should be wasnt on there

Anne Murray The Best So Far.......2006-12-29

This is a super collection of Anne's best. It makes you want to just replay over and over. The love and memories are the greatest. A wonderful artist who just can't grow old.

One Song Missing.......2006-08-13

This is a great CD but there is one song missing from this collection. Walk Right Back should be on this CD. It was a wonderful song that she did in the 70's. She actually does it better than The Everly Brothers.

The Best So Far Ann Murray.......2006-02-17

I love it and I recommend it to any Ann Murray fan.

Just simply a beautiful album.......2005-12-27

Unless you are strickly a country buff, this album has it all. Every song that charted in the top 50 on Billboards pop charts is here plus a few other gems. And, you get 20 songs. How many artists give you that today? Her smooth sultry voice is unmistakable and you can even understand all the lyrics. A beautiful album, you won't be disappointed!

Average customer rating:

Great western soundtrack
a very memorable cd
a very memorable cd
a very memorable cd
Truly Incredible

All the Pretty Horses (2001 Film)

Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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All the Pretty Horses
The Straight Story: Music from the Motion Picture Soundtrack
Street Talk
Think a Second Time
Gladiator: Music from the Motion Picture

ASIN: B000056KYJ
Release Date: 2001-01-16

Tracks:

Cowboy's Dream
Canyon Sonata
All the Pretty Horses
Purty Dad Gum Good
After the Rain
Mild Cello Blues
Malarki Opus in D Major
John Grady's Angel
Edge of the World
Get My Boots
Strawberry Tango, Pt. 1-2
King of Horses
Far Away (Alejandra's Phone Call)
Porque
Love Montage
Ain't That a Drag
My Last Days on Earth/What's It Like to Be Dead?
Long Journey Home
Candles and Lies
Rainy Room
Far Away
Far Away (Reprise)
Cowboy's Dream/All the Pretty Horses [Medley]

Amazon.com

Novelist Cormac McCarthy's literary vision of the wild west is given wide-screen treatment by maverick director Billy Bob Thornton and a cast that includes Matt Damon, Penelope Cruz, and Bruce Dern. Professional country music journeyman Marty Stuart has performed with father-in-law Johnny Cash, Earl Scruggs, and Doc Watson, in addition to a successful solo career. In his soundtrack scoring debut, he provides short, meditative instrumental pieces that are subtly explosive--rife as they are with strains of old-school country and bluegrass. Cinematic strings and orchestral percussion add a welcome menacing edge, augmenting the rustic approach without crossing over into a compromised "countrypolitan" sound. If anything, it might be nice to hear these themes extended. As it stands, the 23 listed tracks are covered in a little under 50 minutes, with many of the cuts barely lasting more than a minute or two. They stand as a new genre of cinematic country minimalism. --Rob O'Connor

Customer Reviews:

Great western soundtrack.......2004-02-28

This is a must buy for fans of western soundtracks.It mixes beautifully symphonic music with Guitar music and spices it up all together with a south of the border flavor. Haunting music that will make you want to never take it out of your cd changer. It also
Features two vocal pieces, the first a spanish song sung by the very talented Raul Malo of the country group the mavericks, the second song is a beautiful ballad sung by Marty Stuart. Though I never owned any cd's of Marty Stuart he earns my respect with composing this film score.(cowboy hats off to you Mr.Stuart)

a very memorable cd.......2003-07-04

I thoroughly enjoyed this soundtrack cd. It soars high on ambiance, romance, and easy listening.

a very memorable cd.......2003-07-04

I thoroughly enjoyed this soundtrack cd. It soars high on ambiance, romance, and easy listening.

a very memorable cd.......2003-07-04

I thoroughly enjoyed this soundtrack cd. It soars high on ambiance, romance, and easy listening.

Truly Incredible.......2003-03-12

This album is a masterpiece. Within the first strums of the guitar, you feel as though you are among the southwestern hills. It has immediately become one of my favorites of all-time. The songs are filled with beautiful imagery, enchanting tunes, and haunting melodies. The shortness of the songs in unnoticable, as each song blends into the next, and the album itself serves as one epic journey. It is not meant to be listened to a song at a time, but as a whole. As I said, it is truly incredible. I would recommend it to absolutely anyone.

Average customer rating:

Subtle Pleasures On This One
Am I getting too old?
Great CD, but not the typical parrothead stuff
My favorite
what's not to love?

Far Side of the World
Jimmy Buffett
Manufacturer: Mailboat Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Beach House On The Moon [ENHANCED CD]
Off to See the Lizard
Banana Wind
Hot Water
Barometer Soup

ASIN: B00005O7VL
Release Date: 2002-03-19

Tracks:

Blue Guitar
Mademoiselle Voulez-Vous Danser
Autour De Rocher
Savannah Fare You Well
All The Ways I Want you
Last Man Standing
What If The Hokey-Pokey Is All It Really Is About?
Altered Boy
USS Zydecoldsmobile
Someday I Will
Far Side Of The World
Tonight I Just Need My Guitar

Amazon.com

Jimmy Buffett's 33rd record--his first for his own Mailboat Records--finds the world's most famous beach bum in an uncharacteristically reflective mood. While he hasn't completely lost interest in beer, burgers, and string bikinis, Buffett no longer seems intent on transporting fans to some tropical Shangri-la. Buffett does take listeners on a trip to the "Far Side of the World," but insists that you bring your baggage with you--and learn to love it. Buffett skillfully weaves themes of self-acceptance, self-abnegation, and fears for the future into unerringly witty and graphic observations, but his words lack much of their usual frivolity and froth. Buffett seems intent on revisiting the emotional landscape he first explored in Living and Dying in 3/4 Time, which produced the rather mournful song of love and separation "Come Monday." His rendition of Bruce Cockburn's "All the Ways That I Want You" recaptures that sense of love and yearning, but without the stark lack of hope. Hope is one thing Buffett possesses in abundance. In "Last Man Standing" he allows thoughts of retirement, but vows, "I wanna be the last man standing." In the elegant "Someday I Will," he admits: "I don't have a plan / It's not that kind of thing / I'm not Martin Luther King / I don't have a dream / It's just sometimes I know that's the way I'm supposed to go." Buffett is a man at a crossroads, where he's created his most evocative and daring music in years. --Jaan Uhelszki

Customer Reviews:

Subtle Pleasures On This One.......2006-11-15

When I first heard this album I was not that impressed in fact I thought it was his weakest release in years. But, over the course of repeated listens it has grown on me and I have learned to appreciate some of the subtleties to be found on the disc. The album is significantly different from much of his output and is probably the least tropical in theme since his very early stuff. In fact much of the album has more to do with Africa then it does the Caribbean. This album is quite reflective and lacks the party escapist themes that usually crop up on Jimmy's album. Highlights include the opener Blue Guitar with its African beats. Autour Du Rocher that tells the story of a hotel / bar that Buffett used to own on St. Barts, that burned down in a fire back in the late 80's. Last Man standing shows that Buffett is not quite ready to retire yet. The title track Far Side Of The World serves as a travelogue of Buffet's journeys through Africa and spending New Years Eve at the turn of the century at a place called Zanzibar (a picture of the hotel is on the back of the album cover). The last track Tonight I Just Need My Guitar is a simple tune that works great to close out the record. Jimmy once again picks some great covers as well doing another Bruce Cockburn song All The Ways I Want You and a rocking cover of Sonny Landreth's USS Zydecoldsmobile complete with a scorching guitar solo from Sonny himself. On the down side What If The Hokey Pokey Is Really What Its All about does not really fit in with this collection and reeks of a deliberate attempt to create a crowd participation number for his live shows. I am not a huge fan of the track Altered Boy either. The rest of the songs on the album are all good. Far Side is a very different album for Buffett and probably will not satisfy some of his parrothead faithful, but if you give this one a chance you will find a lot to like on this disc.

Am I getting too old?.......2006-02-24

I've seen Jimmy several times in concert, and I saw him play Jazzfest in New Orleans around the time when this CD came out (which is why I bought it.) It's "OK" -- hence the 3 stars, and just not my favorite album. I'd stick with one of the "Best of" or live CD's. Just my two cents --- no offense Jimmy --- we still love ya!

Great CD, but not the typical parrothead stuff.......2004-08-23

As the below reviewer noted, this is not a "party CD". It's actually, I think, more kin to some of Buffets early music, being more introspective and musically inventive than many of his more recent CD's. He seems to eschew his typical formula, and produces some really excellent music. You can still tell it's Buffet by listening to it; his style is still there, but the music is really different. It's like he took a new style, and embraced, but his roots showed through maybe; it's hard to explain.
Still, the album is very worth buying; I only dislike one or two tracks (Altered Boy, USS Z---). Some of the tracks are among, IMO, the best of anything he's done in years; Savvana Fare You Well, and All the Ways I Want you are great tracks.
If you like Buffets early music, you'll most likely enjoy and appreciate this album; if you're only a fan of the parrothead party tunes, I'm not sure you would.

My favorite.......2004-03-15

I love Jimmy BUffett, but this cd by far is his best, i think. It has a very romantic and dreamy air to it that makes the listener dream of far away beaches and sunsets, but at the same time it's got a very happy-go-lucky, nothing could beat this type of tune to songs like what if the hokey pokey is all it really is about, and last man standing... The cd starts out romantick and reminiscent with blue guitar, mademoiselle (voulez-vous danser), autour de rocher, and savannah fare you well, and then a few more upbeat songs follow, like the two i mentioned before and altered boy and USS Zydecoldsmobile, and teh cd ends up rather mellow and chill, like that feeling you get when you're under a huge dark blue of stars dreaming about what's to come and feeling small---with the songs someday I will, far side of the world & tonite I justneed my guitar. there is one single song that I dont care for on here, which is all the ways i want you, but the rest i could play over and over forever becasue they never get old and there is a song for every mood. I'd highly recomend that anyone with big dreams of tropical places or exotic places or just an appreciation of jimmy's music check this one out... its wonderful.

what's not to love?.......2003-02-15

Before I begin I must tell you that I just saw the Far Side of the World concert, last nite and saw the BEST BUFFETT CONCERT EVER!! He rocked Miami with songs I haven't heard live in Years!
The new album is awesome with a sound from all his world travels.
Not typical Buffett, as some might think, but what is typical Buffett? He runs the gamit of Country, New Orlean's Blues, Salsa, Caribean Soul. It's a sample of everything he is and as always the soul of Buffett's music is the lyrics. Words and thoughts to live by from my favorite poet, Jimmy Buffett.

Average customer rating:

the quintessential altcountry album
"This Ain't Our Home Anymore, It's Just Four Walls and A Floor..."
Old 97's - Too Far To Care
Yeeeeeeee haw!!! Give this a spin...
Really, country? I might call it rockabilly instead.

Too Far to Care
Old 97's
Manufacturer: Elektra / Wea
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Wreck Your Life
Fight Songs
Hitchhike To Rhome
Satellite Rides
Drag It Up

ASIN: B000002HPH
Release Date: 1997-06-17

Tracks:

Timebomb
Barrier Reef
Broadway
Salome
W. TX Teardops
Melt Snow
Streets Of Where I'm From
Big Brown Eyes
Just Like California
Curtain Calls
Niteclub
House That Used To Be
Four Leaf Clover

Amazon.com essential recording

If the Waco Brothers sound like the Clash playing country music, an Old '97s song like "Barrier Reef" sounds like Rancid doing the Wacos. That's not a bad thing, but lead singer Rhett Miller is more distinctive pining for his gal on the sweetly beautiful "Salome" and "Streets of Where I'm From," a jazzy number about living in a place where romance ends as roadkill. The band--Miller, lead guitarist Ken Bethea, bassist Murry Hammond, drummer Phillip Peeples--sounds most like a rock outfit on the album-opening "Time Bomb," and most like a country crew on "West Texas Teardrops," featuring banjo and Hammond's nasal twang.

On at least half his songs, Miller reveals himself to be a guy who falls in love easily but takes getting dumped hard. The subject matter might get old, but the '97s vary things enough musically to steer clear of trouble. If the story of a guy scared to death of Manhattan on "Broadway" is too obvious, Miller easily redeems himself on the album's closer, "Four Leaf Clover." Sung as a duet with Exene Cervenka, it sounds like X riding a Bo Diddley beat, but the bitter lyrics send it to the moon. "I got a four-leaf clover, but it ain't done me a single lick of good/I'm still a drunk and I'm still a loser/And I'm still living in a lousy neighborhood." After all the crying he's done, it's nice to hear Miller get good and pissed. --Keith Moerer

Customer Reviews:

the quintessential altcountry album.......2006-05-13

I bought this album when it first came out despite the fact that I was rather underwhelmed by its predecessor, "Wreck Your Life". This was their major label debut, and it would seem that the Old 97s took extra care with this album as it improves greatly upon their previous work. Everything on this album is better--the songs, the music, the production. This is the perfect Old 97s album.

So what makes this album so great? Rhett Miller's lyrics and delivery. He had already shown himself to be a smart and clever lyricist on previous albums, but here he takes it to the next level where almost every phrase of every song employs some sort of subtle intricate wordplay. His themes of young love and love lost are still there, but you can tell he took his time with the words this time around. For example, from "Salome", "I'm tired of making friends, and I'm tired of making time; from "Big Brown Eyes", "you make a big impression for a girl your size"; from "Niteclub", "telephones make strangers out of lovers, whiskey makes the strangers all look good", and from "Barrier Reef", "my name's Stuart Ransom Miller, and I'm a serial lady killer". Oh, and did I mention that the kid can sing?

As for the music, they are as tuneful as they ever were here, but the country leanings are very pronounced. They would definitely go on to produce more polished work over the next few years, but if you like your pop music with a healty twang of cowpunk then this is the album for you.

"This Ain't Our Home Anymore, It's Just Four Walls and A Floor...".......2006-04-16

This album is a serious a**-kicker from start to finish.
No matter how old you are, where you're from, or what kind of music you normally listen to, I dare you not to stomp your feet when "Timebomb" gets going. This is the perfect driving album.

But as any Old 97's fan will tell you, the music's only half the story. Rhett Miller and company are kings of the lyrical one liners... and their skills truly shine in Too Far to Care.

Buy this album - you won't regret it. Then see them live!

Old 97's - Too Far To Care.......2005-07-28

A must have for anyone who enjoys X, The Reverend Horton Heat, or anything else that rides the line between punk rock and country.

Yeeeeeeee haw!!! Give this a spin..........2005-01-20

After seeing these guys live a few times during the glory days, I have a lot of respect for them. This album is KILLER. Every track rocks. For those of you who haven't seen the movie, go check out CLAY PIGEONS, which features "Timebomb" as the opening track. The soundtrack has tons of other awesome alt/country/punk music on it.

I recommend TOO FAR TO CARE to anyone who likes CMT and country radio...

Really, country? I might call it rockabilly instead........2004-09-30

I was surprised to read in many reviews that this band tends to be classified as "country." I knew nothing about the Old 97's, but the very first time I heard this album I was reminded of The Knitters/X. Imagine my great surprise when I heard Exene's voice on the final track! Not my favorite song, but it solidified my suspicion that they might have been influenced by that excellent band. Most of this album is really really good. There are only a couple of "eh" songs that I might be tempted to skip. I look forward to hearing more from these guys.

Average customer rating:

Hot Guitar Duets
a breathtaking overview of the flatpicker's art
Straightforward melody lines & fiery improvisations....new feelings out of the older, more familiar tunes

Not Too Far from the Tree
Bryan Sutton
Manufacturer: Sugarhill [Country]
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Country | Styles | Music

General | Bluegrass | Country | Styles | Music

Contemporary | Bluegrass | Country | Styles | Music
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Bluegrass Guitar
Ready to Go
No Apologies
58957: The Bluegrass Guitar Collection
Highway of Dreams

ASIN: B000EJ9VB6
Release Date: 2006-03-14

Tracks:

Forked Deer
Bully Of The Town
The Nine Pound Hammer
Lonesome Fiddle Blues
Billy In The Lowground
Stoney Creek
The Old Spinning Wheel
Big Sciota
Whiskey Before Breakfast
Bonaparte's Retreat
Give Me The Roses
Carroll County Blues
Dusty Miller
Ragtime Annie

Album Description

Like any working musician Bryan Sutton spends a lot of time traveling, but rarely has a road trip inspired such a fortuitous collection of musical encounters as his new recording Not Too Far from the Tree. Sutton first conceived of his new album of guitar duets "in a car on the way back from a trip," he says. "I was thinking about all these guys that had influenced me and that some of them weren't going to be around forever. I was thinking about records like Mark O'Connor's record of fiddle heroes and Jerry Douglas's record with all the Dobro players. And I got this idea of recording with these guys that were my heroes and also good buddies and advice-givers--people that have helped me in my career as a player. I felt like it was something I could do, and I felt honored to be in a position to be able to call everybody up and ask if they wanted to record."

Sutton is one of the most high-profile acoustic guitarists in bluegrass and country music these days, a first-call Nashville session player whose jaw-dropping technique, deep background in tradition, and fluency in multiple styles have landed him important gigs with Ricky Skaggs, Jerry Douglas, Earl Scruggs, the Dixie Chicks, Bela Fleck, and others. But with his third solo recording he opted for a more low-key approach. Though it features some of the greatest, iconic bluegrass guitarists in history (Tony Rice, Doc Watson, Earl Scruggs, David Grier, among others), Sutton's new CD is a tribute to the kind of personal, spontaneous music making that often happens when guitarists get together to jam informally. "I wanted to get out of the studios, out of the sterility of standard record making," he says, "and capture as much of the music on my own as possible, so I decided to go to people's homes.

"I really like the musical conversation that goes on in a duet," he continues. "I like the reactions, and with this record I tried to capture as much of those nuances as possible. In a duo, you have the freedom to go as far as each person is willing to go. You have this great possibility to get one sound, one voice. The guitar has such a wide tonal range that in a good duet situation you don't miss anything, you don't want for bass or the mandolin chop or anything. You've got plenty of sustain and rhythm, all that stuff. When you get a trio, suddenly you have different roles to play. And in a band everybody has their specific part to do at any give moment. But with a duet you can constantly change dynamics and it's completely free."

Sutton not only wanted to showcase his heroes, but also demonstrate just how his own playing as evolved under their influence. However, far from aping his partners, he simply listens and reacts, allowing the music to grow naturally. "There's a conscious level when I'm playing with these guys, where I'll be inspired to do something just because I hear it," he says. "I'm a real reactionary player. When I hear something, whether it be a cool lick from Norman or some weird chord voicing that David Grier is doing, it's going to inspire me to go somewhere spontaneously. It's all improv on that level. But there's also subconscious stuff that happens, little intercommunication things, rhythmic things, the general pocket and groove. I feel like we were able to capture the sound of two guitars sounding like one big instrument, and a lot of that happens subconsciously, where you're really trying to dig into the groove of what's going on--trying to complement the duet partner, whoever that might be. So the influence isn't demonstrated by me playing the same licks that I'd just heard, but in nuances of feel and tone, very subtle kinds of things.

"I never was one to really study other players. I didn't transcribe Tony Rice solos as a kid, but I would try to listen to the feel of what Tony Rice did and try to capture the crux of the intent of what was going on. The whole Not Too Far from the Tree idea reflects that, in that I'm obviously of that, and I do my own thing, but I know where it came from, and I don't take any of it for granted."

Of the guitar heroes/friends he chose to record with, Sutton says:

Tony Rice: Like every other bluegrass player, Tony has influenced me so much with his rhythm playing. The essence of whatever Tony Rice is is something we all search for in bluegrass. Another thing about Tony is his open mind and willingness to learn stuff outside bluegrass...that has inspired me to search.

Norman Blake: Norman always reminds me of the beauty of simplicity, the beauty of allowing the tone of the guitar to speak. And I love the way he moves from chord to chord. Norman's got a certain pocket rhythmically that I love to try to get.

Doc Watson: Doc was my first real guitar hero, like he is for everybody. But I really value his opinions on things. He told Ricky Skaggs that he liked his singing because he could hear every word he sang, and that spoke to me on a lot of different levels about what's really important at the end of the day, musically. It's one thing to play music, but you've got to communicate to people in an accessible way.

Jerry Douglas: I count Jerry as one of the most influential musicians in my life, ever. His improv and what he does behind vocalists is always just perfect. When you hear something he's done on a track on someone's record, you feel like it couldn't get any better.

Earl Scruggs: Earl's guitar playing just anchors a lot of what I've always loved about bluegrass guitar--strong melodic playing that makes good sense.

Ricky Skaggs: The way Ricky played acoustic uitar on his country records just sounded to me like the way it ought to be done. As I've become a session player in Nashville playing on country records, I still adhere to all those concepts I picked up listening to him.

David Grier: The biggest influence David has on me is his ability to affect my interpretation of what's going on in the music. He's a great conversationalist with the guitar, and playing with him I discover things that I didn't know I could do.

George Shuffler: George has such a neat groove in his crosspicking. There's such a great rhythm to it, a lope. George has been a great friend, inspiration, and support, he's definitely influenced me in so many different ways outside of music.

Jerry Sutton: Dad is a real solid person, a very smart guy, but unassuming. Any ability I have to play rhythm guitar and create pockets and good feels for things stems from listening to him.

Jack Lawrence: When I was about 12 so, Jack put a lot of things in perspective for me of how flatpicking can sound--from the clarity and power he was able to get.

Russ Barenberg: Russ is such a solid player, and his soloing is so lyrical. He reminds me to keep a melodic idea strong in my solos. He's one of those great improvisers, like Jerry Douglas and Stuart Duncan, that always have a great melody in their solos.

Dan Crary: Dan's influenced me the most in conceptual kinds of stuff--in the realm of clarity and dynamics in flatpicking.

Customer Reviews:

Hot Guitar Duets.......2007-01-11

Bryan Sutton flatpicks his way into acoustic guitar immortality with these 14 tracks, each with a different great partner.

Whether with Jerry Douglas, Dan Crary, Tony Rice, Ricky Skaggs, Russ Barenberg, or the other hot pickers on this CD, each track is "lightning in a bottle."

Bluegrass lovers, come, sate yourselves.

a breathtaking overview of the flatpicker's art.......2006-05-17

Flatpicking nirvana! When Bryan Sutton -- whose rippling lines and fat tones are among the finest to emerge from a steel-string's soundhole -- decided to record a series of duets with those who helped shape his playing, he grabbed a portable recording rig and visited a bevy of the world's top pickers. The result is Not Too Far from the Tree -- an amazing collection of 6-string conversations, as well as a breathtaking overview of the flatpicker's art. Sutton's musical partners include both trailblazers and modern masters: crosspicking pioneer George Shuffler, Norman Blake, Dan Crary, bluegrass legend Earl Scruggs, Jack Lawrence, David Grier, flat-top sensei Doc Watson, Russ Barenberg, Ricky Skaggs, Dobro king Jerry Douglas, and Tony Rice. As an added bonus, Sutton turns in a beautiful piece with his first guitar teacher -- his father -- recorded in the living room where the young Sutton once practiced. In each duet, the guitars are recorded simply and naturally, allowing us to focus on each picker's unique style, and also dig the sonic differences between the various Martin, Taylor, Bourgeois, Gallagher, Gibson, and Huss & Dalton dreadnoughts (which are all detailed in the liner notes). Packed with red-hot versions of traditional tunes, Not Too Far from the Tree belongs in every flatpicker's collection, and is destined to become a classic.

Straightforward melody lines & fiery improvisations....new feelings out of the older, more familiar tunes.......2006-03-19

Playing Time - 49:12 - 1. Forked Deer (w/Dan Crary), 2. Bully of the Town (w/Norman Blake), 3. The Nine Pound Hammer (w/George Shuffler), 4. Lonesome Fiddle Blues (w/Tony Rice), 5. Billy in the Lowground (w/Jerry Sutton), 6. Stoney Creek (w/Jack Lawrence), 7. The Old Spinning Wheel (w/David Grier), 8. Big Sciota (w/Russ Barenberg), 9. Whiskey Before Breakfast (w/Doc Watson), 10. Bonaparte's Retreat (w/Jerry Douglas), 11. Give Me the Roses (w/Earl Scurggs), 12. Carroll County Blues (w/Ricky Skaggs), 13. Dusty Miller (w/Tony Rice), 14. Ragtime Annie (w/David Grier)

Originally from North Carolina, Bryan Sutton began playing guitar at age eight, and his first professional job playing guitar came in 1992 with Karen Peck, a southern gospel artist. In 1993, Sutton moved to Nashville and joined a gospel group called Mid South. Between 1995 and 2004, he found himself working with Ricky Skaggs, Dolly Parton, Dixie Chicks, Hot Rize and Earl Scruggs. A multiple winner of the IBMA Guitar Player of the Year Award, Sutton has a number of key influences on the instrument. In late-2004, he got the idea to record duets with his musical heroes. With his 1940 Martin D-28 Herringbone, he set out with his digital recorder (an Alesis ADAT-XT-8) and some mics (Neumann K-54s and a U-87) to record duets with his friends in the comfort of their homes or a nearby studio. In the process, he tied in with his buddies Doc Watson, Tony Rice, Ricky Skaggs, Jerry Douglas, Norman Blake, George Shuffler, Dan Crary, David Grier, Jack Lawrence, Earl Scruggs, Jerry Sutton, and Russ Barenberg. He acknowledges being able to get to all those on his list of influences but one, Mark O'Connor. Most of the featured tunes are considered hoedowns, and a waltz like "Give Me The Roses" provides nice contrast. A rag might have given some added diversity to the project. However, selections like "The Old Spinning Wheel" and "Carroll County Blues" do the trick.

"Not Too Far From The Tree" is a welcome presentation that defines flatpicked guitar, an art form of virtuoso technique and agility. Sutton and his partners prove a lot about the instrument. First, its incredible versatility provides the potential for a wide range of extraordinary and powerful sound. Second, the simplicity found in a stellar duo with a total of only 12 strings can also impart many complexities in mood and sentiment. However, it's this very simplicity found in straightforward melody lines and fiery improvisations that give this album its unique flair. This project makes a lot of musical sense, and the players successfully draw some new feelings out of the older, more familiar tunes. These tunes are still considered primarily as fiddle tunes, but Bryan Sutton, a leading player and purveyor of guitar, is staking a solid claim on them for his instrument. (Joe Ross, staff writer, Bluegrass Now)

Average customer rating:

Strong Sophmore
More Sara Evans
A real country album...
Love it!!
Just another CD in my collection...

No Place That Far
Sara Evans
Manufacturer: RCA
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Contemporary Country | Country | Styles | Music

New Traditionalist | Contemporary Country | Country | Styles | Music

General | Country | Styles | Music

Contemporary | Bluegrass | Country | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Three Chords and the Truth
Born to Fly
Real Fine Place
Restless
Girls' Night Out

ASIN: B00000DF6K
Release Date: 1998-10-27

Tracks:

The Great Unknown
Cryin' Game
No Place That Far
I Thought I'd See Your Face Again
Fool, I'm A Woman
Time Won't Tell
The Knot Comes Untied
Love, Don't Be A Stranger
These Days
Cupid
There's Only One

Amazon.com

Sara Evans's 1997 debut, Three Chords and the Truth, seemed, on first hearing, impossible. Here was a major-label Nashville album that, once again, faithfully captured the heartbreaking simplicity of classic country; here was a singer who could belt out with raw nerve and then slip low into deep smokiness. Evans's RCA follow-up is nearly as good, even as it leaves that hard country sound for a more radio-friendly, rocking edge. Billy Sherrill handles the recording, and though there's a luxurious quality to the layers of guitars and vocal harmonies, the standouts "Crying Game" and "Great Unknown" sound more like driving Americana rock than Top 40 country-pop. The real attraction, however, is Evans's fluid songwriting and expressive voice: whether she's singing beside George Jones, Vince Gill, or Alison Krauss, Evans's true, warm tone is, on the mainstream country scene, an emotional world apart. --Roy Kasten

Customer Reviews:

Strong Sophmore.......2007-07-02

Born to Fly is less traditional than Sara's debut "Three Cords and Truth" but certainly still a country album. Her voice remains awesome. Here are good songs:

Great Unknown - uptempo tune about getting away with lover and throwing selves on fate

Crying Game - great tune, best on here

Fool I'm a Woman

Love Don't Be a Stranger - done by other singers, Sara's is best.

Cupid

More Sara Evans.......2007-05-16

This was more pop than her first album, you could really see a development of her own style that she created on this album

A real country album..........2007-04-26

Sara sounds great on this second album. It's very country, like her first, one "Three Chords and the Truth". However it is not one of my favourite albums from her, while it does have some wonderful songs on it. A must-have for traditonal country fans, and any Sara fans.

Choice tracks:
The Great Unknown
No Place that far
Time Won't Tell
The Knot comes untied
These Days

Love it!!.......2006-03-27

After buying and enjoying Sara's two latest cds and seeing her in concert, I decided to get her first three. This is the first one I've listened to so far. And I love it!
Here's my rating on each song, on a scale of 1 to 10...
1. The Great Unknown - Great catchy tune. Really sets the mood for the rest of the album. 10/10
2. Cryin' Game - I know this was a single, but I'd never heard it til she sang it in concert. Definitely one of my favorite songs on the album. 10/10
3. No Place That Far - This was the first song I ever heard from Sara, and it still gets to me like it did then. 10/10
4. I Thought I'd See Your Face Again - This song reminds me of Patty Loveless. Could have been her song, but I'm glad Sara did it. 8/10
5. Fool, I'm A Woman - Love this song! Very clever and catchy. Can't go wrong with this one. 10/10
6. Time Won't Tell - A nice ballad. Not my favorite track, but it's a good one. 7/10
7. Knot Comes Untied - A bit rougher ballad. This one fits Sara better than the previous one. I like this one a lot. 9/10
9. These Days - Some nice harmonies on this one, but not the best song. Almost on the boring side, but not quite. 6/10
10. Cupid - Great fun, catchy song. I'm surprised I haven't heard this one before. 9/10
11. There's Only One - A country-gospel song. My least favorite on the album. Didn't do much for me, but not a bad song. 5/10
This is one of those albums I can let repeat after it's over because I'll definitely want to hear at least some of the tracks again. Can't wait to listen to some more Sara!

Just another CD in my collection..........2005-12-09

For me this was just another one of those CDs that I listen to a few times when I first get it, then play only the singles until finally it sits in my CD tower to be for the most part forgotten! Nothing on this album was really "I love it" material for me. Nothing that called me back to listen to it over and over again. I think Restless is her best album so far (although I have not yet bought the newest release).

Average customer rating:

Viktor Krauss & Friends . . .
Everything works...beautifully
and now for something completely different.....
Bass Work Effortlessly Superb
Incredible Record!

Far from Enough
Viktor Krauss
Manufacturer: Nonesuch
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Outlaw & Progressive Country | Country | Styles | Music

General | Folk | Styles | Music

General | Jazz | Styles | Music

General | Rock | Styles | Music

Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

II
East/West
Nashville
Good Dog, Happy Man
Unspeakable

ASIN: B00018D332
Release Date: 2004-02-03

Tracks:

For a Good Time
Far from Enough
Overcast
Tended
Philo
Big Log
Playground
Grit Lap
Sunday Afternoon Man
Side Street
Here to Be Me
Split Window

Customer Reviews:

Viktor Krauss & Friends . . . .......2006-08-20

have produced a fine, mellow album showing a good deal of diversity in their music. From the opening track "For A Good Time," one can hear the interplay between the guitar, dobro and bass, with Krauss, Jerry Douglas and Bill Frisell weaving their melodies in and out of the song. This does not continue through all of the songs on the album; there's more variety than that. There's also some songs that drag a little, and some that show an ambient side of all playing. A bonus to this almost-all instrumental album is Alison Krauss' vocals on "Big Log," a very fine version. All in all, talented musicians + good songs = a very fine album.

Everything works...beautifully.......2006-06-06

The compositions, the musicians, the production, all produce a release that should be award-winning and yet defies catagorization. The blend of roots/americana, jazz sensibility, and Nashville hot create a complete sound, all new yet seemingly familiar, almost traditional.

This is masterful, modern "fusion" that will appeal to both the musician who craves deep harmonic content and to the casual listener that just wants to relax and chill. The sum is greater than the parts and the parts (musicians) are incredible. Kind of like if you took the Paul Motian trio, the Nashville Cats, and Little Village and shook 'em all up in a box - but even better.

and now for something completely different............2006-01-12

i'm so glad a friend of mine turned me on to this cd. it is so different from what is passing these days for music. wonderfully laid back. it reminds me at times of listening to rain. a musical must.

Bass Work Effortlessly Superb.......2005-12-16

THE BAND: Viktor Krauss (all things bass, electric piano, guitar), Bill Frisell (electric & acoustic guitars), Jerry Douglas (guitars, dobro, lap steel guitar, Weissenborn), Steve Jordan (drums, percussion, conga), and Alison Krauss (backing atmospheric vocals).

THE DISC: (2004) Recorded at Sound Emporium and Brown Cloud in Nashville, TN. 12 songs clocking in at approximately 56 minutes. The disc comes with a 10-page booklet featuring songs (and the players on each song), song credits, band pictures and thank you's. Except for track 6 ("Big Log"), Krauss authored or co-authored all songs. Label - Nonesuch.

COMMENTS: Bluesy, Jazzy, New Age... hard to classify. With that being said, I found this disc in the "Country/Western" section of the store. Great background music. Cerebral, hypnotic, dreamy, eccentric. This disc gets better with age - perhaps as I get older (?)... and I bet the young audience simply won't connect with what their ears are hearing. Mood pieces such as "Overcast" and "Side Street", as well as elements of hard rock in "Grit Lap", "Here To Me" and "Tended". Viktor Krauss is a master on all makes of bass guitar... period. Krauss has been instrumental (as a session musician) in helping other feature artists make their records - including Lyle Lovett, Bill Frisell, Michael McDonald, Steve Forbert, Mary-Chapin Carpenter, Acoustic Alchemy, Jason White and sister Alison. It's about time he had his own release - and this one shines. "Far From Enough" is an instrumental album... containing only one gem-of-a-song with lyrics... a remake of Robert Plant's "Big Log" (Krauss is a big fan of Plant's and Led Zeppelin). He slows the "Big Log" down even more so and Allison's voice is simply devine here. Great disc. * Curious - my disc has a different photograph on the front cover... the same brown tinted black & white type photo, but it shows Krauss squatting down and leaning up against a garage... with an old VW Beetle on one side and a big bass in its case on the other (?).

Incredible Record!.......2005-05-08

Found this record in the Bluegrass section (of all places) at our local J&R Music. Frankly I bought it because I liked the cover art and, at first, I didn't make the connection to big-star sister Alison. Expecting "edgy bluegrass" or "alt bluegrass" (e.g. Hackensaw Boys)I was blown away when I played it through. Bill Frisell's influence is clear throughout and Jerry Douglas is just so tasteful (as usual). All I can say is that this is a really fine album. Big canvas, broad wash of subtle colors underneath, fine details on top. It's a moody and reflective thing with a lot going on.

Average customer rating:

Modern Rock 1982-1983
1. Down Under -- Men At Work 2. Sweet Dreams (Are Made Of This) -- Eurythmics 3. Come On Eileen -- Dexy's Midnight Runners 4. Hungry Like The Wolf -- Duran Duran 5. Shake It Up -- The Cars various artists , 6. She Blinded Me With Science -- Thomas Dolby 7. Too Shy -- Kajagoogoo 8. (She's) Sexy + 17 -- Stray Cats 9. Steppin' Out -- Joe Jackson 10. In A Big Country -- Big Country , 11. Love My Way -- The Psychedelic Furs 12. Mexican Radio -- Wall Of Voodoo Track Title 1. True -- Spandau Ballet 2. One Thing Leads To Another -- The Fixx , 3. Back On The Chain Gang -- The Pretenders 4. Vacation -- The Go-Go's 5. Love Plus One -- Haircut 100 6. I Want Candy -- Bow Wow Wow 7. Our House -- Madness 8. Always Something There To Remind Me -- Naked Eyes , and 9. Only The Lonely -- The Motels 10. I Ran (So Far Away) -- A Flock Of Seagulls 11. Goody Two Shoes -- Adam Ant 12. I Know What Boys Like -- Waitresses
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

New Wave | New Wave & Post-Punk | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music
ASIN: B000NHZHKS

Product Description

Year: 1982 Track Title 1. Down Under -- Men At Work 2. Sweet Dreams (Are Made Of This) -- Eurythmics 3. Come On Eileen -- Dexy's Midnight Runners 4. Hungry Like The Wolf -- Duran Duran 5. Shake It Up -- The Cars 6. She Blinded Me With Science -- Thomas Dolby 7. Too Shy -- Kajagoogoo 8. (She's) Sexy + 17 -- Stray Cats 9. Steppin' Out -- Joe Jackson 10. In A Big Country -- Big Country 11. Love My Way -- The Psychedelic Furs 12. Mexican Radio -- Wall Of Voodoo Track Title 1. True -- Spandau Ballet 2. One Thing Leads To Another -- The Fixx 3. Back On The Chain Gang -- The Pretenders 4. Vacation -- The Go-Go's 5. Love Plus One -- Haircut 100 6. I Want Candy -- Bow Wow Wow 7. Our House -- Madness 8. Always Something There To Remind Me -- Naked Eyes 9. Only The Lonely -- The Motels 10. I Ran (So Far Away) -- A Flock Of Seagulls 11. Goody Two Shoes -- Adam Ant 12. I Know What Boys Like -- Waitresses

Average customer rating:

Great lyrics, great production
A One Line Review of The Far Country
Another Excellent album from Andrew P.!
Andrew Peterson directs our attention from the far country to heaven
From a distance that shortens every day

The Far Country
Andrew Peterson
Manufacturer: Word Entertainment
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

Christian Rock | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music

General | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music

Christian Alternative | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music

Christian Contemporary Music | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music

Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music
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Behold the Lamb of God
Love & Thunder
Carried Along
Clear to Venus
Add to the Beauty

ASIN: B000AARL7K
Release Date: 2005-08-30

Tracks:

Far Country
Lay Me Down
Queen of Iowa
Little Boy Heart
Haven's Grey
Mystery of Mercy
Mountains
All Shall Be Well
For the Love of God
More

Customer Reviews:

Great lyrics, great production.......2007-06-16

I had never heard of Andrew Peterson until I saw him play at a church service in Houston a few days ago. I was riveted by his poetic, thoughtful, yet understandable lyrics. I bought the CD after the service, and I haven't stopped listening to it yet.

His style reminds me of Chris Rice's "Deep Enough to Dream" album, with it's mostly acoustic folk-rockish arrangements, thought-provoking Christian themed - but not exclusively "religious" - lyrics, and pleasant and easy-on-the-ears vocals, though "The Far Country" has slicker production.

"Lay Me Down" is probably the best song of the album. It echoes "Deep Enough to Dream's" title track's fascination with what Heaven will be like, but while the latter is daydreamy and relaxing, the former is inspiring and invigorating.

An other of my favorites is "Mystery of Mercy." Peterson asks "My God, my God, why has thou Accepted me?" as hammered dulcimer and electric guitar blend with great results.

I'm still exploring this album, but I can safely say I will be playing it often.

A One Line Review of The Far Country.......2006-08-13

Andrew Peterson pulls of a stunningly beautiful album, layered with exceptional instrumentation and lyrics that chase after themes of love and loss, life and death, and the hope of heaven...the results are absolutely moving.

Another Excellent album from Andrew P.!.......2006-02-07

He just gets better and better! Every song on this album is amazing, uplifting, and just GREAT to listen to. The theme is hopeful, which is a great blessing in this crazy world!

Andrew Peterson directs our attention from the far country to heaven.......2005-09-06

Andrew Peterson makes it easier to bear the loss of Rich Mullins. Since Rich left in a whirlwind and chariot of fire, Andrew may come closer than anyone to catching his mantle. The poetic and whimsical verse, the otherworldly view, the storytelling, and the acoustic rock sound are all here.

It's what makes The Far Country worth repeated listens. For now we are in the far country, but heaven is our home, and we long for it. The life that awaits us more than makes up for death and loss. This is the theme that emerges.

One song that captures some of this is the "Queen of Iowa." The inspiration came from a woman that was a big fan of Andrew's music, and who was dying of a number of AIDS related illnesses. Her church was generous enough to fly Andrew and Ben Shive out to perform in her living room. Andrew sings of seeing her, "She was as pretty as a flower in a crystal vase that lights up the room as it withers away." Though dying she was more alive than those around her, and Andrew knew that he would never be the same. It's a touching and beautiful song.

"Lay Me Down," is Andrew's "Elijah," the song by Rich Mullins that so fittingly eulogized his life. Andrew sings, "When you lay me down to die, I'll miss my boys, I'll miss my girls / Lay me down and let me say goodbye to this world / You can lay me anywhere but just remember this, when you lay me down to die, you lay me down to live." It may be somewhat ironic for a song about one's passing, but the music, which includes some stellar electric guitar work, makes me feel more alive. It's a song that makes you want to sing and dance on the inside if not outwardly.

"Little Boy Heart" has a Bruce Hornsby energy with its sound and piano work. It's no accident since Andrew acknowledges his admiration of his work. The title conveys a little of the adventure in the lyrics. It's enough to make one long for a revived sense of childlike exuberance and wonder.

"Mystery of Mercy" features beautiful hammer dulcimer work that would make Rich proud as Andrew asks a somewhat different question, "My God, my God, why hast thou accepted me?"

As a single person who has struggled with relationships, when I read that "For the Love of God" was written for a dear friend, "who was terrible with relationships," it made me want to laugh. The honesty was refreshing. Andrew promised his friend that if he ever married, which seemed unlikely, he would write this song. He says, "What little I know about love between a man and a woman is in this song." It's a great song that would be a meaningful addition to any wedding.

"More," written with critically-acclaimed folk artist Pierce Pettis, is about heaven and fittingly closes the recording. It's a masterpiece of pure folk.

I liked the sparseness that I heard on Love and Thunder, Andrew's last release, but the slightly fuller sound on this recording is likely to appeal to more people. The music is more cohesive with less fluctuating between the extremes of sparseness and fullness. The electric guitar is a little more prominent, providing more of a rock edge to a few songs. The bluegrass heard on the last recording is absent. Most songs are a blend of mid-tempo folk, pop and rock. The production, musicianship and artistry are all top-notch.

Since I discovered him on his "Clear to Venus" recording, Andrew Peterson has been one of my favorite artists. If you are unfamiliar with his music, The Far Country is a great place to get to know him.

There will never be another Rich Mullins, but Andrew Peterson directs us toward home in a way that makes it a little easier to live in the far country. This is a look to heaven that alternates between hope, yearning and joy.

From a distance that shortens every day.......2005-09-05

This year, Andrew Peterson's music has been medicine for this heart of mine. I eagerly awaited the charms of this new album. Unlike Love and Thunder and Behold the Lamb of God, which grabbed me right away, this one struck me like Clear to Venus, an album that took some time to properly fathom and hold very dear.

The Songs: The Far Country is a paean of desiring heaven. Andrew Peterson (AP) explores his theme from the vantage of dying and despairing souls and those burdened with the joy of living, which should be no burden. "The Far Country" is a rock song that reminds me, of all things, of John Waite's "Missing You" and kicks off the album like "No More Faith" did for Clear to Venus. "Lay Me Down" is a powerful love letter from a dying parent--it reminds me so much of my father-in-law, who died this year. It's one of the best songs on the album and features an emotionally convincing vocal by Peterson. "The Queen of Iowa" is a languid ode to a remarkable event and marks the album's shift from heaven as the goal of the dying to heaven as the inspiration of the living. "Little Boy Heart Alive" is the third rocker on this album; it slowly builds up quite a head of steam and captures that zest for life that one hopes Christians truly know. Written mostly by Ben Shive, "The Havens Grey" boasts allusions to the writings of Tolkien; although musically intriquing in spots, it hasn't quite captured my full appreciation yet. AP and Goodgame's "Mystery of Mercy" was covered by Caedmon's Call on Back Home, but this incarnation is musically superior with delicate percussion and shimmering hammer dulcimer in the background. "Mountains on the Ocean Floor" is one of AP's story songs, and it's odd imagery kept bringing me back again and again. In its oblique way, it speaks perhaps most eloquently of how desiring heaven can inspire personal transformation. "All Shall Be Well" is a little island vacation, an eye in the hurricane, a reminder to hold on--the lightest song on the album and a real delight. "For the Love of God" is a personal song that brought tears to my eyes. Cowritten with Pierce Pettis, "More" is a fitting summary of all that's gone before. It ends rather abruptly--there's no hidden track--to a void that beckons you to ponder the unseen country that awaits beyond the veil. It was something of a shock--perhaps the best reminder that heaven can be a sudden reality for anyone, anytime.

Comments on the music: The Far Country is AP's third collaboration with Ben Shive, who produced this album. Although superficially reminiscent of AP's previous work, there is definitely something different here. AP's emotional range seems a little broader (from tired and thirsty to downright lusty for life), the music seems bright and beautiful, and the musical palette seems richer than before. Guitars and percussion weave delicate filigree. The background vocals, Osenga in particular, are inspired. The Far Country cries out attention to detail. I felt somewhat lost during my first listen of this album, and it was "For the Love of God" that woke me up to its splendor. I haven't stopped listening.

Overall: With all of the unexpected heartbreak of the past several years, I feel this album's message is very timely. Scripture references support the songs' lyrics, which often reveal great insight into the human heart's desire (and fear) of heaven. Andrew Peterson's unrefined voice lends authenticity to the message. The musicians layer beauty upon beauty in each song. I suppose AP is right: "believing and longing for heaven affects every aspect of our lives here on earth." To die well, one must live well, and The Far Country is an invitation to live abundantly while we wait. Highly recommended.

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