Wherever I Go (Hayden's Ferry, 1999)

The first reaction is to look at the cover to see what this is, for listening defies a neat pocket to place it. There's some bluegrass instrumentation, some folk. Bob Amos, member of bluegrass band Front Range, penned all but one song and shows an amazing range. He showcases his guitar picking and a voice more new country than bluegrass. You'll hear a quick Beach Boys harmony, a rockabilly tune ("Two Parts Sweat"), then a Jim Croce-like "November" - and that's after the a cappella near-dirge "The Fields of Home." Ah, but wait for "Baby's Got The Blues." If you can get through that without tapping your toe, better check for a pulse. "I Know Where You Live" has one of the best hooks you'll hear this year.

Contemporary folk? Maybe. Contemporary Croce is the best pigeonhole, if you need one. It's like rhubarb pie: a little different, a little tangy, but still real good.