The title of Rounder's
Alison Krauss compilation
A Hundred Miles or More: A Collection is a bit misleading. While it does contain previously recorded material, it is not to be taken as a greatest-hits package; rather, the 16 tracks are compiled from
Krauss' numerous collaborations, soundtrack appearances, and other non-
Union Station gigs. That said, it's as solid a set of material as one could want from the multi-talented
Krauss. As a voice for hire, there are few singers with her emotional range, a gift she lends easily to the
Elvis Costello-penned "Scarlet Tide" from the Cold Mountain soundtrack. Award-winning duets with
Brad Paisley ("Whiskey Lullaby") and
James Taylor ("How's the World Treating You") -- the latter a
Louvin Brothers cover -- as well as collaborations with
the Chieftains ("Molly Bán") from the legendary Irish group's
Down the Old Plank Road: The Nashville Sessions) and
Sting ("You Will Be My Ain True Love") make this anthology of oddities far from superfluous.
A Hundred Miles or More also boasts five new cuts, including "You're Just a Country Boy," "Simple Love," the gorgeous "Jacob's Dream," "Away Down the River," and "Sawing on the Strings," the latter of which harkens back to early, more bluegrass-oriented
Krauss. ~ James Christopher Monger