Angel From Montgomery

I'm inserting a little multi-media today by linking and talking about a video. It is Jill Hennessy's cover of Angel From Montgomery by John Prine. Bonnie Raitt recorded it on her Streetlights album, an album that should be in anyone's collection who enjoys Raitt's songs. But Jill (she's responded to one of my tweets, so I am allowed to use her first name) certainly makes it her own.

I actually heard Angel From Montgomery years ago on a rafting trip run by a local company. The company operates an exciting, fantastically fun trip (screw it, I'll give 'em a plug: Kings River Expeditions) and has a campfire show after the evening meal. It features the guides and anyone who wants to do something is free to join it. I read a humorous, at least to me, poem I wrote. But the absolute highlight was a guide singing this song.

She was accompanied by a quite competent guitar player (buff river guide AND guitar player, yeah, he bought condoms by the pallet). Even discounting my infatuation with her, she did have a fabulous voice and sang an incredible version of the song.

I did a little research to find out more about the song. I was unfamiliar with Bonnie Raitt, but soon became a huge fan. Her bluesy, folk, rock elements means she is a joy to listen to in almost any mood.

I had just joined Twitter and was watching an old Law & Order episode (the original is still the best). It was one with McCoy and Kincaid, my favorite combo, and I was pleased with how well the 20 year episode held up. I saw Jill (again, she tweeted me, we're good) was on Tweeter and followed her to say so.

Now in her Twitter bio, she mentions being an actress, for the people that don't have a TV, and being a singer/songwriter. I chuckled to myself, here's one of those self-absorbed actors that thinks they can do anything. I mean, who doesn't hear "actor-songwriter/singer" and automatically think of William Shatner's Rocket Man?

I had to listen to one of her songs. I'll admit I was hoping for a dash of schadenfreude. I wanted to hear a train wreck, but as the song started, I had to admit it wasn't the auditory torture I expected. In fact, she was quite good. Whereas I had just clicked to sample a song, I bought the album (hell, while I'm giving out plugs: Ghost in My Head).

I tweeted her that I really enjoyed her music and compared her to Bonnie Raitt. She tweeted back a thanks (see, I said we're tight). She later posted this video and, damn, she cranks out a great version.

I've enjoyed this song over many years and have never heard a bad version. Now, if you've read this before listening, click the link and reward yourself. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do