Young, Guitar Days (Rolling Tide, Relentless, 2001)

Although the music of Steve Forbert has always been infused with folk, his songwriting genius transcends that form and people of all musical tastes could at least respect his personal vision.

That vision has never been more evident than in this collection of songs dating from his most fertile period in the late '70's. Although left off of such pleasing albums as "Little Stevie Orbit" and the like, calling these songs outtakes is doing them a disservice. It almost seems as if Forbert couldn't write a bad song during this time, and these are just as good as any that made his incendiary albums during that period.

Did Forbert's meteoric success with "Romeo's Tune" keep him from achieving the respect he deserved? No one will ever know but the hope and heartfelt feelings he's been able to relay through his songs and his voice have enabled him to build a decent career despite some past missteps. This set rightfully builds on his already strong legacy.