Here’s something unexpected: Folk-pop pixie Jonatha Brooke, granted access to Woody Guthrie’s archives, takes the opportunity to co-write a batch of new songs with the American icon from beyond the grave, adding music to Guthrie’s lyrics, and drafting a sterling group of players (including Joe Sample, Steve Gadd, Christian McBride, Keb’ Mo’, Glen Phillips, and Eric Bazilian of the Hooters) to lend support. The end result sounds pretty much like any other Jonatha Brooke, which is both a little disappointing and a tribute to Brooke’s strength and presence as an artist. Listeners hoping for a whiff of the Dust Bowl will probably come away disenchanted; The Works tries hard, but although Brooke’s vocals might boast several compelling colors – weary, strong, sensual – they’re always pretty, and that placid, unflappable beauty prevents her from digging into the beautifully uneven spirit at the heart of Guthrie’s work. Still, even if it makes for a disappointing Woody Guthrie album, The Works stands tall as one of Brooke’s most assured and down-to-earth solo outings, and the musicianship is flawless from start to finish; the sessions were recorded in a two-day burst, leaving the songs with a wonderfully relaxed warmth. Add it to your brunch playlist and repeat as necessary. (Bad Dog 2008)
