The Essential Shawn Mullins

Shawn is an amazing talent with a unique voice and storytelling ability. I first saw him perform when we both attended North Georgia College in the late 80's. He's a true master of the trade with a passion for perfection. I recommend his music to everyone who enjoys soulful melodies and lyrics.

Shawn Mullins is the real deal, an artist who doesn't reject commercial success, but one who won't pander to it either. Sure, he'd like to pay the bills, but he's not a stadium guy. Wants to make good music and play to an audience who appreciates it. He's the rare performer who has something worthwhile to say...and the talent to deliver. His voice: deep and silky as melted chocolate. It needs little embellishment: a lone acoustic guitar does just fine. Yet his strength is his stories: this is music for people who savor lyrics. This album is a good overview of his work, drawing from several CDs he has released over the years. A good place to start for those new to his work (or only know him for Rockabye).

As I watched Shawn Mullins this month in Charlotte the guy next to me was telling me about all the shows he saw this year. It must have been 50 performers. Then he said he thought he was looking forward to this show the most. I told him he would not be disappointed. He wasn't, best show by far he'd seen. After the show I got to meet Shawn - great, sincere as his songs guy. He played about four of the songs on this album on his guitar, no backup no nothing. He didn't miss a beat, not a note. Every song just powered out. I like the rest of the band with him but not one ounce of the show or these songs with just Shawn and his guitar disappointed me. I contend Shawn Mullins is the greatest singer songwriter you don't know about but you should. I guess if you only bought one album of Shawn's buy this, But if you are like me you will buy this one and every other one he's done. The amazing thing about Shawn's music is that he's so authentic, so true to his craft and vision.

If you're wanting a comfortable intro to Shawn's modern work, this is a great way to go. If you like the sounds of Canyons & Caverns and/or Lately, be SURE to check out his older albums available from SMG. There isn't a bad one among them. Period. "Border Song (Holy Moses)" with Sir Elton John is phenomenal and is only available on this album...not to be missed!