Bonus Feature: CD

Bombast isn't necessary when you have something so pure. Legendary rock god Robert Plant and bluegrass goddess Alison Krauss collaborate to create perfection in Raising Sand-- easily one of, if not THE best album of 2007. Producer T-Bone Burnett allows Plant and Krauss to pull from their respective backgrounds and creates this hybrid of blues, rock, and country.

Burnett introduces these artists in a new light that is fresh and beautiful. Krauss is raw; Plant is uncharacteristically vulnerable and soft. There is an intimacy-a maturity found here that astounds this listener. Plant and Krauss sound familiar- down right celestial. Burnett allows the best of each artist to emerge, but coaxes and guides them down unexplored paths to create perfect synergy.

I'd hate to give the impression that this album is 'old' but with descriptions that include 'maturity', 'soft' and especially 'bluegrass' won't evoke confidence from my peers. Even so, Raising Sand has true crossover appeal. Rock fans-- Led Zeppelin fans are notoriously cautious and hold all former members of the band to high standards. Those fans will truly see the versatility in Plant. Bluegrass fans are similar in their devotion and will learn that music doesn't have to have a lead fiddle to be good.

Plant and Krauss weave through songs like The Everly's 'Gone Gone Gone (Done Moved On)', 'Stick With Me Baby' and 'Nothin'' with a indescribable ease, yet solid power. Special shout-out to Dennis Crouch-- a regular customer of mine back in Shopgirl days-- for exquisite bass playing. {Fans may remember his work on the Walk The Line soundtrack}. 'Please Read The Letter' is easily my favorite track. See iTunes if you're the immediate gratification type.

Raising Sand deserves it's accolades. Amp it up, rock it out.