Kathy Mattea ~ Coal (Captain Potato). The country-folk hitmaker folds a fierce populist message into a tenderly observed homage to her West Virginia roots. Her gorgeous, gritty vocals prove that country music still benefits from a little honest dirt under its nails.

The Duhks ~ Fast Paced World (Sugar Hill). Canada's premier neotradsters romp from world-beat to blues, urban-pop to old-timey, with wild-eyed invention, haunting traditionalism, and spine-rattling groove. Who says the Frozen North can't sizzle, eh?

Pete Seeger ~ At 89 (Appleseed). It almost feels like the old folk lion is scouring his vast musical pantry, making sure that every scrap of useful music is given away. A compellingly personal peek into Seeger's resplendent and radical genius.

Lissa Schneckneburger ~ Song (Footprint). New England's long-obscured canon of native-born traditional songs is brought to gorgeous, toe-tapping life by the brilliant Downeast fiddler-singer. How can something so culturally significant be this much fun?

Various ~ The Imagined Village (Real World). Electrifying reinventions of British folk classics, with an intriguing, divergent cast, including Billy Bragg, Martin and Eliza Carthy, Simon Emmerson, Tunng, Sheila Chandra, and Benjamin Zephaniah.

Rosalie Sorrels ~ Strangers In Another Country (Red House). Raw, tender, wise, and wounded, Sorrels creates an intimate musical wake for songwriter-raconteur Utah Phillips, whose legend she did so much to create.

Malinky ~ Flower & Iron (Mad River). This young Scottish quintet may be the best ballad band in the Celtic realm. Their sound is as primal as Highland moors in March, as seductive as a first kiss.

Various ~ Red House 25 (Red House). The superbly realized retrospective tracks the modern songwriter movement from Greg Brown's Grant Wood naturalism and John Gorka's romantic realism, Meg Hutchinson's intimate impressionism to the primitive neotrad landscapes of the Pines.

Tony Rice ~ Night Flyer: the Singer-Songwriter Collection (Rounder). The bluegrass guitar god's earthy, spacious, and propulsive vocal style is finally given its due. Find out why this old picker is Alison Krauss's favorite singer.

Jonatha Brooke ~ The Works (Bad Dog). Woody Guthrie's lyrics find urbane new voice within Brooke's sleek, winking alt-pop. If the Dust Bowl troubadour had matriculated at Amherst, he'd sound just like this.

Gene's listed (in no special order):

Joe Crookston ~ Able Baker Charlie and Dog ~ I loved Joe's first release and this is even stronger, with terrific story-songs and Crookston's penchant for memorable melodies.

Kathy Mattea ~ Coal ~ This proves that Mattea is a folkie more than she is a country singer. "Coal" includes the very best covers of coal mining themed music. A masterpiece

Chuck Brodsky ~ Two Sets ~ Chuck's soft, laid back presentation belies the power and intensity he projects--especially in live performance.

Darrell Scott ~ Modern Hymns ~ All around quality on display here. Darrell Scott chooses great songs or he writes them. That's a win win listening experience.

Various Artists ~ Erik Balkey - Mission Street Project Vol. 2 ~ When a compilation includes so many top notch songs it deserves to be recognized, and enjoyed. Erik Balkey who had hand in writing all these tunes continues to amaze me with his talent.

Various Artists ~ Ribbon of Highway Endless Skyway: The Woody Guthrie Tribute Tour ~ of the best Woody Guthrie songs done by the best Guthrie interpreters around. A must for the personal library of every Woody fan.

Jonatha Brooke ~ The Works ~ Jonatha gets a batch of co-writes with Woody Guthrie and a wonderful album to boot. Finally someone with such a distinctive flair for melody makes Woody's words come to life in a whole new way.

Garnet Rogers ~ Get A Witness ~ vidid memories of brother Stan and his feelings about the insanity of the world today add a richness and depth of writing that aims straight for your soul. Wonderful!

Pat Wictor ~ Sunset Waltz ~ New talent catches on fast. So catch Wictor soon as he rises to the top with his song bag full of great originals. You'll be taken by his superb guitar work too.

Red Molly ~ Love And Other Tragedies ~ This all women trio has the repertoire and vocal talent to give each of their songs a special delivery treatment. Fine instrumental work adds a definite enhancement.

MY TOP 10 CD'S OF 2008:

Pete Seeger ~ At 89 (Appleseed): Some people might think that a Pete Seeger selection is a sentimental favorite. You need to listen to this CD in its entirety to realize that it is a epic story in word and song about the life and music of Pete Seeger. David Bernz did an outstanding job of producing this collection of songs and spoken introductions. Every song standsout, but the real beauty of the CD can be discovered by listening the “old fashioned way” – from the first cut straight through to the end. Bernz enlisted superb musical support from members of his band Work O’ The Weavers- a quartet that pays tribute the legendary folk group that featured Seeger) produced this recording. In addition, other Seeger-influenced performers such as the Walkabout Clearwater Chorus, The Hudson River Sloop Singers are included in the recording of classic and new Seeger songs.

Various ~ The Imagined Village (Real World): Technically, this CD was a 2007 release in the UK but the first US distribution came in the summer of 2008. Developed as a project by Afro Celt Sound System member Simon Emmerson, the CD is folk music in the 21st century – “living” trad music that reflects a contemporary folk community and influences of a multi-cultural England. When Cecil Sharp and his contemporaries collected folk song over a century ago, they created an image of rural life that may have glossed over realities. This “imagined village” concept inspired this project that features a diverse collection of musicians including English “folkies” Martin Carthy and his daughter Eliza, Billy Bragg, and the Copper Family alongside contemporary artists with a worldly beat such as Tiger Moth, Transglobal Underground and dub artist Benjamin Zephaniah who duets with Eliza Carthy on one of my favorite tracks – a modern retelling of “Tam Lyn”. The entire CD shows that music is not meant to be put on a shelf and admired from a distance – it has a living soul that reflects the community it serves.

Kathy Mattea ~ Coal (Captain Potato): Watching Kathy Mattea share a workshop with Jean Ritchie at the Philadelphia Folk Festival this summer solidified the fact that Kathy invested her heart and soul into this recording. It is more than just a thematic collection of songs about coal miners and their lives; it is a personal affirmation of her connection with the community that she sings about. Her West Virginia roots and exposure to the hardships and triumphs enabled Kathy to create one of the most powerful collections of songs to come our way since the days of Woody Guthrie. Kathy’s stunning vocals do not gloss over the grit and harsh reality of the songs. A well deserved Grammy nomination for Best Traditional Folk Album.

Kerfuffle ~ To the Ground (Root Beat): The third release from this UK band is helping to build their reputation as one of the most exciting young bands in the English folk scene. The group formed as a trio 2001 when the members were just 13 and 14 years old who met at a competition for young folk musicians. Realizing they shared a love for traditional music and were in sync with each others style they continued to explore the music, eventually adding a fourth member to their group. You might hear echoes of groups like Pentangle or Fairport Convention in the music of Kerfuffle, but their style is unique and honors the tradition. Vocalist Hannah James (who also plays accordion) turns in some beautiful performances on standards such as “Down by the Greenwood Side”. A group to watch!!!

Magpie ~ In This World: Looking Back, Moving Forward (Sliced Bread): Greg Artzner and Terry Leonino celebrated their 35th anniversary of performing together with this new release on Sliced Bread Records. For this anniversary celebration, Magpie selected and re-recorded songs from various points of their career. Their new takes on these songs reflect the experience they have gathered since they first joined together in harmony in Kent, Ohio. They have included songs such as “Give Light”, a song that first appeared on their 25th anniversary CD release and has matured into a fitting song for our time. Magpie shows that they have not wavered from their commitment to do their part in creating a better world for everyone. Their gift of music is to be cherished! (I also had the honor of interviewing Greg & Terry for an article that appears in the current issue of Sing Out magazine.)

Two-Man Gentleman Band ~ Heavy Petting (Serious Business): Any group that releases a CD with songs such as “When Your Lips Are Playing My Kazoo” and “Dippin’ Sauce” will immediately get my attention. But it is the strength of the songs that will keep them on the radar. The Two-Man Gentleman Band is a duo from New York City that perform a vaudeville style blend of hot jazz, old-time country, tin pan alley and other roots styles. They deliver a performance that despite some double entendre references is geared for a family to enjoy. Performing original songs that sound as if they were written 70 to 80 years ago, the Two-Man Gentleman band have recorded a CD that always makes me smile, tap my foot and forget about the burdens of contemporary times.

Lindsay Mac ~ Stop Thinking (Taiga Records): Walking over the hill at Falcon Ridge this year, I glanced at the stage and wondered who was this person with a huge guitar. As I drew closer I realized that she was actually playing a cello (strapped as a guitar) and the music and performance was captivating – a combination of assertive lyrics and a poetic sensibility that stands out among the current crop of singer-songwriters. Coupled with a performing style that delivers the honesty as well as the imagination behind the songs, Lindsay Mac has recorded a CD that should reach far beyond the contemporary folk music enclave. These songs are “radio friendly” and I find the tunes playing in my head long after the CD player has been turned off.

Joan Baez ~ Day After Tomorrow (Razor & Tie): This just might be my favorite Joan Baez recording of all time. While her songs have always been part of the soundtrack to my own life, her albums have often been uneven and could have been produced with a lighter touch in order to focus more attention on her skill as an interpreter of song. “Day After Tomorrow”, thanks to the insightful touches from producer Steve Earle, delivers a cohesive collection of songs that allows Baez to deliver a knockout punch. While her voice is no longer the pristine instrument that catapulted her to international fame, she can still share emotion and tell a story like no other performer on the stage today. This recording captures her spirit and perseverance that has not diminished. The title cut, a song written by Tom Waits, is an anti-war song that delivers a deeply personal message unlike other songs of the genre.

Red Molly ~ Love and Other Tragedies (self): Be still my heart!!! This trio continues to expand their musical horizon and gain new fans. Their exquisite harmonies have never sounded sweeter than they do on their latest CD. I fell in love with this mix of standards and originals that all meld into a style that is unique to Red Molly. From a torch-ballad take on Amy Speace’s “Make Me Lonely Again” to the swingtime feel of “Sentimental Gentleman from Georgia” this CD has something for every mood. Trad fans will enjoy their beautiful take on “Wayfaring Stranger”, a song that in other hands would sound overdone and clichéd, but Red Molly makes it feel like you are listening to the song for the first time. By the way, I have a theory that every good CD that was released in 2008 was touched in some fashion by Red Molly. All three of the bandmates, as well as the unofficial “4th” Red Molly member Anthony da Costa, have guested on numerous recordings this year. They are hot!!!

Jack Hardy & David Massengill, The Folk Brothers ~ Partners in Crime (Great Divide): Seeing a CD from the Folk Brothers was a breath of fresh air this summer. A relatively simple production without fancy bells and whistles that seem to dominate the work of contemporary singer-songwriters, Partners in Crime allow the duo of Jack Hardy and David Massengill to shine and remind the listener of the powerful and influential music they have created during their lengthy careers. While not household names (except in better households!), Hardy & Massengill have individual careers that many others have tried to emulate.

Honorable mention: Greg Klyma, Randall Williams, The Angel Band, Debra Cowan

Top 10 Womenfolk CD’s of 2008

Eliza Gilkyson ~ Beautiful World (Red House): The deepest and most compelling album from a long line of great releases. Musically eclectic and radio-friendly, this CD showcases Eliza’s commanding voice, which has never been more beautiful or more rockin’ than it is here. I can’t get enough, and neither can my listeners!

Lucy Wainwright Roche ~ 8 More (Self): This sweet, captivating collection continues where Lucy’s first CD 8 Songs left off, with crystalline vocals and deceptively simple songs that paint vibrant images and tell heartbreaking stories. My favorites are “Snare Drum” and “Chicago.”

Dar Williams ~ Promised Land (Razor & Tie): It’s been a long time since one of Dar’s albums has made my “Best Of” lists, but this CD won’t leave me alone. With an easy pop sound and lyrically lovely songs, this album puts me in a good mood despite some of the heavy subjects, like those tackled on “Buzzer” and “Holly Tree.” There are also some feel-good songs celebrating independence that will speak to the old-school Dar fans like “It’s Alright” and “The Easy Way.”

Rosalie Sorrels ~ Strangers in Another Country: The Songs of Bruce “Utah” Phillips (Red House): Celebrating two folk icons, this tribute to the late great Utah Phillips is unlike any other. His dear friend and frequent collaborator Rosalie Sorrels weaves together poems and songs that speak of Utah’s big life and irrepressible spirit. The first track “Starlight on the Rails” because it makes me cry every single time...hence why I play this 6 minute and 14 second long track so frequently on my show.

Emily Kurn ~ I’m Just Like You (Self): This was a special surprise that arrived in my mailbox a few months ago. Anchorage-based songwriter Emily Kurn has put together a lovely collection of original songs that speak of love, family and small-town life. Her haunting voice is lifted up by nice minimalist production. I listened to this album a lot on my recent road travels and kept revisiting “You’re Far Away,” “Hotel Room” and “Symphony.”

Mavis Staples ~ Live: Hope at the Hideout (Anti): Mavis’ last studio album, We’ll Never Turn Back, was one of my favorites of 2007, and this new live album contains many of the same songs but with fiery introductions that seem to pour out from her like she’s preaching from the pulpit. Amen, Mavis!

Annabelle Chvostek ~ Resilience (Borealis Records): This is not the former Wailin’ Jenny’s first solo album but it is certainly her finest. As eclectic as Annabelle’s wide musical influences, this album mixes folk, jazz, gypsy and old-timey music in a wonderfully cohesive fashion. Lots of big-name guests join this talented multi-instrumentalist songwriter, including Bruce Cockburn, Mary Gauthier and Julie Wolf. My favorite song is the traditional sounding “The Sioux,” featuring fiddler Bruce Molsky.

Becky Schlegel ~ For All the World to See (Lilly Ray): A long-time favorite in the Twin Cities, bluegrass-flavored singer-songwriter Becky Schlegel made her national debut this year with this release. Featuring musical partner Brian Fessler on banjo, guitar and harmony vocals and guest appearances by Bo Ramsey, this album shows Becky at top form with compelling story songs, driving bluegrass riffs and perfect vocal delivery. A busy musician, Becky also released two great country albums in the last year—Heartaches and Country Ballads.

Anais Mitchell & Rachel Ries ~ country e.p. (Righteous Babe): The first time I heard Rachel Ries was several years ago when she opened for Anais Mitchell at the old Acadia Café in Minneapolis, and I remember thinking how great these two unique singer-songwriters would sound together. Their new appropriately named country e.p. is proof that my theory was correct. It features 5 melancholy numbers that evoking the loneliness of autumn. My favorite is Anais Mitchell’s song “Come September.”

Abbie Gardner/Anthony da Costa ~ Bad Nights/Better Days (Self): Abbie Gardner’s been busy this year with the release of a CD with her band Red Molly and this duo album with 17 year-old up and comer Anthony da Costa. Why would this accomplished multi-instrumentalist and singer want to put out an album with a teenager, you ask? Because this kids writes great songs that belie his years. Abbie does great work with them, contributing Dobro, banjo, guitar and spot-on vocals. All the tracks are great, but the one getting the most airplay on my show is “Red Barn,” an Abbie Gardner original. NOTE: This album is best listened to after a long night at the bar.

Honorable mentions: Meg Hutchinson’s Come Up Full, Jonatha Brooke’s The Works and Erica Wheeler’s Good Summer Rain.

I put together the usual list of ten favorites this year, but the first few on the list deserve special mention:

Abigail Washburn and the Sparrow Quartet ~ Abigail Washburn and the Sparrow Quartet: This CD is just stunning. Abigail's songs are quirky and fun, and Bela, Ben, and Casey contribute arrangements for them that include hints of countless musical styles. Abigail's clawhammer banjo provides an old-time appalachian base, and then there's bluegrass, chinese music, chamber music, bits of rock and jazz, and who knows what else. It's a lovely and unique mix, and I find that I enjoy it more with each new listening.

Various ~ Ribbon of Highway, Endless Skyway - The Woody Guthrie Tribute Tour: This 2-CD set features a great bunch of singers celebrating the words and music of Woody Guthrie in live performance. The core musicians are Jimmy LaFave, Slaid Cleaves, Eliza Gilkyson, and Ellis Paul singing Woody's songs, plus Bob Childers reading from Woody's writings. Add to that artists like Sarah Lee Guthrie and Johnny Irion, Michael Fracasso, Kevin Welch, and Joel Rafael, plus cameos by Pete Seeger and Fred Hellerman, and you have a genuine all-star cast. The performances are respectful and enthusiastic and a whole lot of fun. There have been other Guthrie tributes, but this one is my favorite by far.

Elixir ~ Super Tonic: Elixir is a contradance band that features the usual fiddle and guitar, but augments that with clarinet, trumpet, and trombone. This mix of instruments gives this set of mostly traditional tunes a treatment that is unlike anything you've heard before. I find myself listening to it over and over. If you ever get the chance to dance to this band, don't miss it!

Charlie Haden Family & Friends ~ Rambling Boy: Charlie Haden is highly respected as a jazz bassist, but few would remember him as a toddler singing "old familiar songs" on his mother and father's radio show. He grew up with country music, and has now returned to those roots with his own family. His triplet daughters provide some amazing vocal work on this record, as do a number of well-known friends: Vince Gill, Roseanne Cash, Ricky Skaggs, Elvis Costello, Bruce Hornsby, Dan Tyminski, and son-in-law Jack Black.

Joe Crookston ~ Able Baker Charlie and Dog: a great collection of songs that are based on true stories.

Darrell Scott ~ Modern Hymns: Darrell Scott's 2008 CD is a tribute to those songwriters who have most influenced him.

Kasey Chambers & Shane Nicholson ~ Rattlin' Bones: Kasey Chambers teamed up with her husband Shane Nicholson for a wonderful collection of new country songs.

Eliza Gilkyson ~ Beautiful World: Eliza Gilkyson continues her string of exceptional records.

Tim O'Brien ~ Chameleon: Tim O'Brien's new one is truly a solo album, with Tim doing all the singing and playing

Heidi Talbot ~ In Love and Light: Heidi Talbot simply has the most beautiful voice that I've ever heard.

So many choices. Very difficult choices if you must know.

This is NOT a "best of" list. These are all CD's that have crossed my desk in 2008 that I believe are worthy of your attention -- albums that I have on my iPod and listen to regularly. They are personal choices, but I hope you'll give them a listen. The order given here could change, depending on my mood, but this is how I would rate them today. All are highly recommended.

X = Canadian artist

Tannis Slimmon - Lucky Blue / X

Jez Lowe and the Bad Pennies - Northern Echoes: Live On The Tyne

JP Cormier - The Messenger - X

Terence Martin - Even Trade

Michael Jerome Browne - This Beautiful Mess / X

Genticorum - La Bibournoise / X

Ian Tyson - Yellowhead To Yellowstone And Other Love Stories / X

Ben Bedford - Lincoln's Man

The Breakmen - When You Leave Town / X

Sarah Burnell - Return ticket / X

Joe Crookston - Able, Baker, Charlie and Dog

Still on the Hill - Ozark - A Celebration In Song

Old Man Luedecke - Proof of Love / X

Lynne Hanson - Eleven Months / X

Randall Williams - Praying For Land

Martin Hayes & Dennis Cahill - Welcome Here Again

Trinitude - Rooted / X

April Verch - Steal the Blue / X

Sisters Of Sheynville - Sheynville Express / X

Laura Bird - The Water in Between / X

Caroline Herring ~ Lantana (Signature Sounds)

Lynne Hanson ~ Eleven Months (http://www.lynnehanson.com)

Sally Barris ~ Restless Soul (http://www.sallybarris.com)

Rachel Harrington ~ City of Refuge (SkinnyDennis Records)

Crooked Still ~ Still Crooked (Signature Sounds)

Erynn Marshall & Chris Coole ~ Meet Me in the Music (Hickoryjack Records)

Pete Seeger ~ At 89 (Appleseed)

Rosalie Sorrels ~ Strangers in Another Country - The Songs of Bruce "Utah" Phillips (Red House Records)

The Gordons ~ Our Time (http://www.myspace.com/thegordonsmusic)

Kasey Chambers and Shane Nicholson ~ Rattlin' Bones (Sugar Hill)

My year end rankings are based on a highly scientific process that involves counting the number of times I played each CD and then ordering them from 1 (for most played) on down in descending order. In order to be eligible a CD had to be: (1) released in the 2008 calendar year; and (2) a new recording, not a re-release.

1. Chatham County Line ~ IV
2. Tift Merritt ~ Another Country
3. Spring Creek ~ Lonesome Way to Go
4. Blue Highway ~ Through the Window of a Train
5. Dailey & Vincent ~ Dailey & Vincent
6. Band of Heathens ~ Band of Heathens
7. Old Crow Medicine Show ~ Tennessee Pusher
8. The Waifs ~ Sundirtwater
9. Crooked Still ~ Still Crooked
10. Railroad Earth ~ Amen Corner
11. James McMurtry ~ Just Us Kids
12. Dar Williams ~ Promised Land
13. The Duhks ~ Fast Paced World
14. Grass It Up ~ Shoot the Moon
15. Palmer Divide ~ The Bow River Sessions
16. Robin & Linda Williams ~ Buena Vista
17. The Waybacks ~ Loaded
18. Otis Taylor ~ Recapturing the Banjo
19. The Infamous Stringdusters ~ The Infamous Stringdusters
20. John Hiatt ~ Same Old Man

Following is the list of Matt's personal choices for "top eleven" releases of 2008, in alphabetical order.

Chuck Brodsky ~ Two Sets (Waterbug)

Jonathan Byrd ~ The Law and the Lonesome (Waterbug)

*Maria Dunn ~ The Peddler (Distant Whisper Music)

Archie Fisher ~ Windward Away (Red House Records)

Frigg ~ Economy Class (Northside Records)

Caroline Herring ~ Lantana (Signature Sounds)

John Hiatt ~ Same Old Man (New West)

Tom Paxton ~ Comedians and Angels (Appleseed Recordings)

Kate Rusby ~ Awkward Annie (Pure Records)

Danny Schmidt ~ Little Grey Sheep (Waterbug)

Darrell Scott ~ Modern Hymns (Appleseed Recordings)

ACOUSTIC ACCENTS “Baker’s Dozen” – Top 13 for 2008

We do a "best of" show every year that I call my "Baker's Dozen" because it's a top 13 (that's about how many songs I can fit into an hour show). Because we're syndicated and usually stay 1-2 months ahead in our programming, our "year" goes from 10/01/07 to 9/31/08.

Peter Mulvey ~ Notes From Elsewhere (Signature Sounds): Stellar songwriting and exquisite guitar from Peter Mulvey captured in an intimate yet powerful live performance. Every track’s a winner.

The Infamous Stringdusters ~ The Infamous Stringdusters (Sugar Hill): The Infamous Stringdusters appear on my top 13 list for the second year with their latest self-titled CD on Sugar Hill. The best of newgrass from six top-notch musicians.

Kym Tuvim ~ Nothing Sweet Nothing (Retrofit): Nothing Sweet Nothing A beautifully produced record by a very talented singer and songwriter from Washington state. More people need to know about Kym Tuvim.

Crooked Still ~ Still Crooked (Signature Sounds): Crooked Still is “still awesome” even after the departure of cellist Rushad Eggleston. As always, great vocals from Aoife O’Donovan.

Beth Wood ~ Beachcomber's Daughter (bethwoodmusic.com): The latest from Texan Beth Wood is a potpourri of musical styles that feature Beth’s strong songwriting. Her vocals on this record are nothing short of amazing.

The Dixies Bee-Liners ~ Ripe (Pinecastle): If you like contemporary bluegrass you’ll want this record. The Dixie Bee-Liners hail from Virginia and their musical roots show through on this fine release from Pinecastle Records.

Steppin' In It ~ Simple Tunes For Trouble Times (Earth Work Music): The best Americana record I heard last year that mixes bluegrass, jazz, blues and zydeco into something altogether different.

The Duhks ~ Fast Paced World (Sugar Hill): Back with a great new vocalist (Sarah Dugas) The Duhks are back on my Top 13 list with their latest release on Sugar Hill Records.

The Weepies ~ Hideaway (Nettwerk): A great songwriting and performing couple, Deb Talen & Steve Tannen’s latest record features pop-tinged songs many of which have found their way to TV (including an Obama add that aired around the Country last October).

Meg Hutchinson ~ Come Up Full (Red House): A songwriters songwriter, this latest record from Meg Hutchinson is chock full of great songs. Tastefully produced by Crit Harmon on Red House Records.

Sarah Sample ~ Never Close Enough (Ramona): This record features full production and is a bit of a folk-pop rocker that I found myself playing over and over. In other words, Sarah Sample rocks!

Abbie Gardner/Anthony da Costa ~ Bad Nights Better Days (Self): Anthony da Costa is a young songwriter who writes way beyond his years. He hooked up with Abbie Gardner for three days last year and together they captured some powerful performances.

Ellis ~ Break The Spell (Rubberneck Records): Her sixth release could be her best ever. Loaded with great songs. Check out the latest from Ellis.

My reasons for picking the various CDs begins with the number of times the discs were "spun", each one for its own reasons:

Various Artists ~ Ribbon Of Highway/Endless Skyway: Woody Guthrie Tribute Tour : This one is an historic two disc set, documenting the words and music of the great Woody Guthrie. Included in the touring show were songs that Woody didn't set music to. Thanks to Nora Guthrie, artists like Ellis Paul and Eliza Gilkyson were invited to write the music, further deepening Woody's legacy.

Leela & Ellie Grace ~ Where The Waters Run: Leela and Ellie are part of the Grace Family who have been entertaining Missouri for decades. Their sophomore release shows why their mix of traditional and contemporary folk music (and clogging!) rewarded them with a "Standing O" at the 2008 Folk Alliance conference.

Various Artists ~ The Wandering Fool: Songs By Bob Dyer: The late "Bard of Boonville", Bob Dyer, was and incredible historian, author, poet and songwriter who generously encouraged others in their art. Many of those artists perform on this recording of Bob's songs, a small "thank you" to his legacy.

Various Artists ~ Moneyland: An important recording in these times.

Erica Wheeler ~ Good Summer Rain: I booked Erica several times at the coffeehouse I ran many years ago. Her music has grown and refined over the years.

Various Artists ~ Songs Of Social Justice: Recorded at a 2006 colloquium presenting material from and stories from some of the greatest writers and singers of social justice songs (the late Utah Phillips, Rosalee Sorrells, Ronnie Gilbert, Tome Paxton, Faith Petric, etc).

William Ackerman ~ Meditations: I have always been an admirer of Ackerman's music since he began Windham Hill.

Pete Seeger ~ At 89: It's Pete Seeger. Does any more need to be said?

Jack Williams ~ Don't Let Go!: Jack's seemingly effortless guitar artistry and vocals doe real justice to the songs that represent some of his cherished influences.

Denice Franke ~ Gulf Coast Blue: Denice is a master story teller. She is able to show you her characters from the inside out.

Red Molly ~ Love And Other Tragedies: Amazing harmonies and musicianship.

The Refugees ~ Unbound: Deborah, Wendy and Cindy...not only great harmonies but superb songwriting.

Abigail Washburn & The Sparrow Quartet ~ Abigail Washburn & The Sparrow Quartet: Abigail invites us to enjoy the adventure of East Meets West.

Carrie Newcomer ~ The Geography Of Light: Carrie is able to write on multiple levels at the same time and has the voice to share these stories.

Chip Taylor ~ New Songs Of Freedom: n important topical release from the songwriter who gave us "Angel Of The Morning" and "Wild Thing" so many years ago.

Acoustic Harmony Favorite Releases of 2008

Meg Hutchinson ~ Come Up Full: Recently signed to Red House Records, Meg continues the tradition of that great label with a beautiful personal record filled with beautiful vocals and the lovely production of Crit Harmon.

Erica Wheeler ~ Good Summer Rain: Another gorgeous release from Erica, also produced by Crit Harmon, it’s filled with lovely vocals and virtually transports you to the hills of northwestern Massachusetts.

Jeff Talmadge ~ At Least That Much Was True: Texas singer songwriter that spins lyrical gems on this great release.

Robby Hecht ~ Late Last Night: Robby’s debut is filled with wonderful melodies and amazing guests like Mindy Smith.

Hungrytown ~ Hungrytown: A fabulous release by the husband/wife duo of Ken Anderson and Rebecca Hall of Vermont. Old timey with fabulous harmonies throughout.

Mae Robertson ~ Meet The Sun Halfway: Mae’s beautiful vocals are the centerpiece to this lovely uplifting release.

Lynne Hanson ~ Eleven Months: Bordering on an “alt-country” feel, this Canadian singer songwriter has an instantly recognizable voice and style.

Randall Williams ~ Praying For Land: A lovely flowing record that sweeps you up and takes you along for a beautiful ride

Jenee Halstead ~ The River Grace: A great rootsy record that touches on all aspects of the Americana genre.

Rj Cowdery ~ One More Door: There’s a wonderful intimate live feel to this great folk record.