BILL MILLER
Spirit Songs - The Best Of Bill Miller (Vanguard)
Reviewed by Ron Saranich

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It's a shame when an artist of Bill Miller's talent and ability is relatively unknown. Miller, of Mohigan/German parents, uses his Indian roots, culture, and tradition as the foundation of his music. Miller does it all and does it well. He's written all the songs except for one, while playing guitar, flute, harmonica, and piano. His voice, a wonderful tenor, is perfect for his material. At times, he sounds a bit like Chris Isaak, and when playing both his acoustic and harmonica (cross harp, so he's blowing more of the notes than usual) he sounds a lot like Dylan.

I don't know if Miller's lack of recognition is a result of record industry bias, societal prejudice, changing tastes in musical styles, or deep seated humility, but it's reprehensible that most music fans have never heard Miller's music. Let me put it to you bluntly. This is the best folk CD I've heard in at least 15 years, maybe longer. It's that good. From the opening notes of "Dreams Of Wounded Knee," the listener knows they are hearing something special. Yes, the songs are centered on Native American issues, but Miller uses them to expand outward to larger themes common to everyone. One after another, each song demands to be heard. My favorite Miller number is "Listen To Me," which combines touching lyrics with wonderful instumental work. It's Miller at his most Dylanesque. Just as great is Miller's interpretation of the one song another musician wrote, Michael Murphy's "Geronimo's Cadillac." As Jimi Hendrix's cover of Dylan's "All Along The Watchtower" is now the definitive version, so, in my opinion, is Miller's heartfelt rendition of this poignant song.

From pure folk to Native American chants, from instrumentals to love songs, each tune is an aural pleasure. Given Miller's spiritual depth and emotionally sensitive approach to life and the human condition, this album has it all. Please, listen to me and check out Bill Miller's Spirit Songs. It will do wonders for your soul.

© 2004 - Ron Saranich