9th WARD PICKIN' PARLOR

by Shawn Mullins

Vanguard Records

Were I a fair maiden on my balcony of an evening, Shawn Mullins is the troubadour I’d want to come serenade me. His deep, husky voice and exemplary guitar playing make “9th Ward Pickin’ Parlor” the perfect companion for a rainy afternoon, a late night, a long car drive.

“Homemade Wine” and “Talkin’ Goin’ to Alaska Blues” are blues songs with deep lyrics and remarkable guitar work. “Kelly’s Song” and “We Could Go and Start Again” reaffirm the promise that love brings to our souls.

At first “Solitaire” reminded me of free verse — its own uncommon rhythm and tune, but Shawn resolves it into a beguiling drown-your-sorrows song of lost and broken love. “Find Love” is a hopeful song of moving on.

“Cold Black Heart” is true to the ballad tradition: a story of love and betrayal and consequences. “Beautiful Wreck” sings of faithfulness amid trouble. “Blue as You” is the troubadour’s serenade. Slow, easy, captivating — it could win the coldest heart.

The lyrics to “All Fall Down” and “Lay Down Your Swords, Boys” make you want to listen to them again. The album finishes with a fine version of “House of the Rising Sun.”