Jonathan Edwards - Jonathan Edwards (1971/2006)

Singer-songwriter Jonathan Edwards released this charming debut record in 1971. The album gained some mainstream attention thanks to the catchy political-pop single "Sunshine." Featuring rustic, acoustic-based ballads, and up-tempo numbers like "Train of Glory," Edwards's warm, gentle voice was surrounded by a group of empathic musicians collectively known as Orphan. Edwards sang his homespun tunes in a casual, easy manner, while accompanying himself on acoustic guitar and harmonica. The emotional centerpiece on this album is "Sometimes," a touching ode to the early-morning memories of a love long gone. A convincing vocalist armed with a batch of heartfelt compositions, Jonathan Edwards typified the young, folkie troubadours that were popular in the early '70s. In retrospect, this recording was also his finest effort. --Mitch Myers