I must agree with Chris that the energy and excitement of Steve Suffet's live performances are not captured on this CD. I don't know how they could be. But what is captured is Steve's most important talent, his uncanny ability to bring people together to make great music. I hesitate to call the people who provide the instrumental and vocal accompaniment "back-up musicians." They are really co-performers, and just like he does in person, Steve lets them shine. In doing so his own performance is enhanced, not eclipsed. Listen to the vocal duet on A Shantyman's Life and the vocal trio on Shady Grove and you will hear what I mean. Then to add the exception which proves the rule, Steve ends the CD with his stark naked rendition of See My Grave Is Kept Clean. No additional instruments, no additional vocals, just Steve and his guitar. Very nice!