From the sweet to the salacious to the poignant,
Maria Muldaur's eponymous, strong debut features savvy studio vets, talented guests, strong tunes, and
Muldaur's lissome pipes. The outstanding players include
Ry Cooder,
David Grisman,
Clarence White, and
Mac Rebennack, better known as
Dr. John. A tasteful guitar solo by the underrated
Amos Garrett elevates the charming surprise hit single "Midnight at the Oasis." Although she later gravitated to jazz and gospel,
Muldaur's first outing is heavy on songs derived from country and blues. A rousing "Work Song," borrowed from
Kate & Anna McGarrigle, is only one of several highlights. ~ Mark Allan