“Baker’s Dozen” for 2009 

Serving up some tasty tunes from last year **

#1 “Fascination” Back on the “Baker’s Dozen” for  the third time, The Greencards knock another one out of the park with their own brand of new grass.

#2  “Song Up In Her Head” a stellar debut from 18 year-old whiz-kid Sarah Jarosz.  Great production and all star line-up of players.  On Sugar Hill.

#9  “Chances” I love this record by Kelleigh McKenzie.  It was released in 2008 but I just discovered it last year.  I think she flies under the radar of many but really deserves more attention.

** Records selected from those received between October 1, 2008 and September 30, 2009.

#3  “Gravity of Grace” A beautifully produced record by a warm-hearted singer and songwriter from Wisconsin.  JohnSmith writes songs about love, loss, and life  that matter to most.

#4  “Eros” I believe this is the best record  Cosy Sheridan has released to date.  Lots of great songs.  I wore this one out.

#5  “Dusty Road To Beulah Land” The latest release from Drew Nelson did not disappoint.  A formidable songwriter that plays and sings with a subtle power that draws you in.  On Waterbug Records.

#6  “House For Sale” I’m a big fan of this singer-songwriter from the Maritimes.  Dave Gunning released this record in Canada in 2007 and it’s loaded with good songs that cross a number of genres.

#7  “The Crow” If you ever wondered if Steve Martin could really play the banjo you should check this record out.  Produced by John McEuen, Steve pulls together a dream band to make “the most expensive banjo album in the history of the universe.”

#13  “Night of a Thousand Stars”    Four very talented ladies make up this excellent San Francisco band.  You have to check out Blame Sally.

#12  “If You Were For Me” Released in Canada in 2006, a brilliant collection of songs written and performed by Rose Cousins.

#10  “How Things Start” A terrific debut from another great Alaska band.  Steve Brown and the Bailers have put together a solid set of songs with lots of musical flavors.  It’s hard to pin down a genre but whatever it is, I like it.

#8  “Doors and Windows” A major break through release for a great Alaska bluegrass band Bearfoot.  These folks have grown up in front of us here in Alaska and just keep getting better and better.  On Compass Records.