(2011) A Tribute To Tracy Chapman

Chapman fans should really enjoy this tribute, originally released in England and available as an import. The contributors retain the singer's flair for refined mood (whether it's anger, hope, or loss) while giving the songs a slick folk-pop kick. And while many of them are little known or even unknown, there isn't a bad performance in the bunch. It's not quite clear which version of Fotheringay this is, but their version of "Talkin' 'Bout a Revolution" is rousing and propulsive. "Jiggy" stays largely in the tracks of the original "Fast Car," but delivers a solid vocal performance. "Vee"'s a cappella work on "Behind the Wall" is dramatic and stately, reminding of the roots of American folk music, while the Young Dudes' take on "She's Got Her Ticket" is molded from the same Caribbean lilt as its source material. Tasteful, accomplished, and sharing the vibrant emotions of its feted artist, Tribute to Tracy Chapman is a real find for the avid fan. ~ Johnny Loftus