My iTunes shuffle mode is on, and the first track that plays is...
...1. Bluesette (Live)-Toots Thielemans
(Harmonica master Thielemans leads a strong quartet in an enjoyable prelude followed by a driving melody.)
2. Reptile-7 Worlds Collide
(Lisa Germano sings lead on a quirky tune whose chorus grows on you.)
3. Nantucket Island-Willie Wright
(As mentioned previously, Wright's laid-back singing should have garnered more success in the '70s. His album, "Telling The Truth," should have been a big hit.)
4. Ela-Wa-Zimba
(An interesting blend of African and European influences here.)
5. Peace March-Bruce Cockburn
(Two concepts mesh well in this guitar instrumental brought to my attention on KDHX's "Backroads.")
6. Footprints-Squeeze
(An appealing tune for the Summer-to-Fall transition.)
7. The Silent Nutcracker (Instrumental)-Trans-Siberian Orchestra
(Dials down "The Nutcracker"'s preciousness, to good effect. A quieter, not-so-produced guitar instrumental.)
8. Callin' Venus-Jazzamor
(A contemplative instrumental with shades of Vangelis and The Alan Parsons Project.)
9. Wichita Lineman-Dee Felice Trio
(A cool rhythm section's instrumental take on this song that Glen Campbell made famous.)
10. The Windmills Of Your Mind-Buddy Merrill
(A good, guitar-based instrumental rendition.)
11. Lord Won't You Help Me-Sara Watkins
(One of Watkins' most endearing solo tracks; a moving set of lyrics about seeking help from a higher power when your resolve is crumbling.)
12. This Side-Nickel Creek
(Sara Watkins' brother, Sean, sings lead on this optimistic title track from the band's excellent second CD.)
13. Rose Cottage Reels-Capercaillie
(Fit for welcoming Spring or any number of other joyous occasions.)
14. Oh Holy Night-Suzanne Ciani
(An instrumental highlight from the compilation, "A Very Green Christmas.")
