Supper's on the Table...Everybody Come In

SUPPER'S ON THE TABLE...EVERYBODY COME IN skims the cream from singer/songwriter/multi-instrumentalist John McCutcheon's sizeable discography. Though largely known for his music geared specifically to children, McCutcheon has released several albums that do not fit neatly into that category. Some of the songs here are culled from those albums, while his better-known children-oriented material is also represented ("The Principle," for example, about a trip to the office, and "Soup," which sings the praises of everyone's favorite liquid meal). Whether writing for adults, children, or both (the set list here is by turns whimsical and comic, then political and serious in intent), McCutcheon displays a knack for storytelling, clever lyrics, accessible melodies, and warm, intimate singing. Also impressive is the artist's fine musicianship. In addition to acoustic guitar and banjo, he also plays the didgeridoo, autoharp, and hammer dulcimer (his dulcimer work, in particular, has been widely praised). McCutcheon's special ability for synthesizing these instruments into his folksy sound is evident on each of the 17 tracks here. SUPPER'S ON THE TABLE is an excellent place to begin exploring the work of this talented singer/songwriter.