Dear Companion

I first heard Baird's music in her role as a member of Espers, an American psych folk band with a Medieval tint. Imagine my joy to find a gem like this: bringing her talents to delicate, self-harmonized renditions of Child ballads and other traditionals (half the album). I'm a folkhead, so I've heard tons of variations on the same trad songs, but I must say that of all the Willie O'Winsburies I've heard, Baird's "Willie O'Winsbury" is my favorite. Perfect interpretation. Vocals, guitar, dulcimer, songwriting: this folk artist has it all. Helluva debut solo album.