This soundtrack album for the WB drama Everwood features a clutch of contemporary singer/songwriters and adult alternative artists covering classic material from the 1970s.
Jars of Clay kicks things off with a pleasant, slightly modernized read of
America's "Lonely People," while
Griffin House is an absolutely uncanny vocal stand-in for
Jackson Browne on
Browne's "These Days." The work of
Cat Stevens appears throughout
Everwood, as interpreted by
Kristin Hersh ("Trouble"),
Sixpence None the Richer vocalist
Leigh Nash ("Father and Son"), and
Travis ("Don't Be Shy"); the latter is notable for how much it suggests both
Stevens and
Badly Drawn Boy.
Jason Mraz incorporates his soulful, scatting singing style into the memorable melodic hook of the
Seals & Crofts AM radio gem "Summer Breeze,"
Guster's take on
Jimmy Cliff's "Harder They Come" is rhythmic and understated, and
Toby Lightman channels
Carole King for her read of
Jim Croce's "Operator [That's Not the Way It Feels]."
Everwood fans will note the inclusion of the show's theme music, as well its star Treat Williams' amiable, acoustic take on the
Loggins & Messina classic "Love Song." ~ Johnny Loftus