This release moves between good storytelling and self-analytical expression. Gerner rides his guitar, and harmonises with his subject, willing you in to weather the storm of his poetic vignettes. From the country, blues and folk-art tradition, Gerner writes songs that make you think of small towns, personal hardship and supplication at the altar of one's hopes and dreams. ''Remember all we've done, circling round this burning sun,'' he sings on All We've Done. This album is full of lessons, observations, loves and longings, and Gerner's varied subjects and style dance around it, leaving me feeling I've just read a good, dusty novella. Check out The Resurrection of Henry Box Brown and Mother Nature's Runaway Girl.