Music » Live Album Folk Music

"Stories" is the operative word here. The late Harry Chapin penned tales that touched a chord in listeners regardless of their age, background, or truth be told, regardless even of the type of music they normally listened to. Chapin always came across as a tough guy with a heart of gold, a brainy type who wasn't afraid to get his hands dirty--much like the protagonist of "Taxi" (a terrific rendition of which is contained herein). In addition to radio staples like "Cat's in the Cradle," the 1976 recording also sheds light on slightly lesser-known pieces like "Circle" and "Mr. Tanner." Chapin's affable manner shines through the entire album, giving it a disarming quality that's not always present on the studio versions. --David Sprague

Release Date: 2000-04-11, Audio CD, Collector's Choice

There was a time when Dar Williams flubbed her chords, forgot her lyrics, and could only make it through a set due to the enthusiastic support of her fans. Now she's a seasoned and poised folk-rocker and a mesmerizing live performer, although this recording fails to reflect it. Sadly, her magnetic personality and energy seem lost here. Recorded during her 2000 tour behind The Green World, Out There Live too often falls short of both her lush studio recordings and her vibrant stage performances. Although upbeat numbers like "As Cool As I Am" and "Are You Out There?" nearly summon the patented Williams charm and verve, her more plaintive, quiet songs, such as "February," "End of the Summer," and "When I Was a Boy," sound exhausted and flat. No new songs or covers are included, most arrangements vary only slightly from existing studio recordings, and Williams frequently sounds downright bored. Her endearing stage banter is captured in a few song introductions, but it is not enough to carry an album that will please only die-hard fans. --Sally Weinbach

Peter Paul & Mary - In Concert - CD WARNER BROS / WEA FOLK & TRADITIONAL.

Release Date: 1998-10-13, Audio CD, Sony

The intimate setting of the University of Texas facility where the Austin City Limits television show is taped proves the perfect venue for singer-songwriter Kate Wolf. Wolf shines whether stretching out on up-tempo numbers such as "Picture Puzzle" and "Like a River" or focusing on her trademark acoustic ballads. It's a comfortable performance, scattered with stories and gentle jokes. Nina Gerber adds extra instrumental spice and Tom Diamant throws in spot-on harmony. Recorded a year before her death, An Evening in Austin includes such Wolf favorites as "Give Yourself to Love," "Friend of Mine," and "The Redtail Hawk." It's equally effective as an introduction or an overview of a much-missed artist. --Alexandra Russell

Release Date: 2003-08-19, Audio CD, Sanctuary Records

Release Date: 2000-05-30, Audio CD, Morning Sky

Release Date: 2007-01-08, Audio CD, Fogarty's Cove

Release Date: 1991-02-01, Audio CD, Rhino / Wea