Roger McGuinn
Live from Mars

Live from Mars perfectly encapsulates Roger McGuinn's solo performances, and it successfully makes the case that he ought to be given an opportunity to appear on VH-1's Storytellers.  An outstanding, if underrated guitarist, McGuinn truly shines in the acoustic setting presented on the album.  Chestnut Mare is spectacular from the introductory story to McGuinn's guitar picking and vocals.  Mr. Tambourine Man appears twice, which is how McGuinn has been performing the pair in concert. The first take is an acoustic version which features all of Bob Dylan's original lyrics. The second version is performed as it appeared on The Byrds' albums.  Presented as an epic, acoustic phenomenon, Eight Miles High is given quite a workout as well. 

In addition, Live from Mars boasts two new tracks from McGuinn. May the Road Rise, the better of the two selections, appears twice -- once in a live format and once from a studio session.  Fireworks, the other new tune, also was recorded in the studio.  McGuinn received some help from The Jayhawks' Gary Louris and Marc Perlman on both of these cuts, and their style is suited perfectly to his music.  ½

1 Star:   Pitiful
2 Stars: Listenable
3 Stars: Respectable
4 Stars: Excellent
5 Stars: Can't Live Without It!!