Well here I am breaking what I think of as a solid rule when reviewing a CD. I don't have it infront of me to give all the titles. I hope Jed will forgive me this social gaff.

Jed sent me a preview copy for which I am eternally greatful. Much as I enjoyed his first CD, The Streets of Fall River, I had a few problems with it. There were some stylistic changes from one song to the next, front half to back half. About the time I decided I was listening to a song about the southern Irish perspective on the Civil War we jumped up to Fall River Mass. The heart breaking Prayer from Little Round Top and Fighting Tigers of Ireland being prominent in this direction. Then we shifted a few gears and took off in to the world of Bluesical finger style. Then some how I discovered that that was the dis arming charm of Streets. An while not perfect it is
an exceptional recording.

While the same charm exists in in Soul of A Wanderer the CD seems more cohesive over it's length. There is a more consistent style from one song to the next even tho it is quite ecclectic in his choice of songs.

Once again I like everything on the CD. Jed's almost quirky take on Sweet Wyoming Home with a cowboy chorus is a standout. Angus Fraiser by Rick Fielding ( I hope I'm right here) has a near Bluegrass feel to it. And all I can say about Rose of San Antone is Jed sings it like a Texan. Jed even pops some new life into a few delicious old chestnuts. Phil the Fluters Ball by Percy French, Where the Praties Grow, and Drill Ye Tarriers Drill could only sound so good because of the obvious affection Jed has for the songs. A strong standout is Jed's Soul of A Wanderer. And if it has an intentional Kate Wolf feel to it, I forgive Jed. Beside some of the finest lyrics regarding love and devotion I have heard, there is a cello or baritone fiddle part that makes your breath stop.

Two exception CDs from Jed Marum and I endorse them highly. Particulary Soul of A Wanderer.

Don