Phoebe Snow: Live

Recorded in Woodstock, NY, in July 2008, Live catches Phoebe Snow delivering a typically eclectic set filled with humor, fire and tenderness. The singer/songwriter’s talents seem undiminished as she effortlessly glides up and down her amazing vocal range. Snow touches upon all phases of her career, contrasting the wistfulness of her 1974 breakthrough hit “Poetry Man” with the cooking rhythm of “Shakey Ground” and the positive vibe of “Natural Wonder.” Especially moving is her rendition of “You’re My Girl,” written for her daughter, who had passed away earlier that year. She puts an individual stamp on such familiar tunes as “It’s All In the Game” and “With a Song In My Heart,” embellishing each lyric with elegant, subtle phrasing. The droll show biz story she uses to introduce her revelatory remake of “Piece of My Heart” is yet another high point. Snow’s band — featuring such fine players as bassist Bob Glaub and guitarist Roger Butterley — supports her with nuanced playing throughout. Live was the final album released during Snow’s lifetime.