This is the first Christine Lavin CD that I have purchased and I may have done better with a studio recording. I was introduced to Ms Lavin via XM Folk Village and have been watching her site to see if she ever ventured South for a performance but this seems very unlikely. The CD is very entertaining and has considerable "filler" between the songs as she interacts with the audience. Obviously some of the effect is missed with just an audio representation. I was a big fan of Harry Chapin and saw him perform multple times in both large and small venues and Christine appears to have that same stage presence that Harry utilized so well. Her stories through her music will make you smile, my daughter loved the "Wind Chimes" song, and overall this CD makes me want to continue seeking a live performance to experience personally. If you're looking for artistic vocal performance in a polished production of audio engineering then this is not your best choice. However, if you are looking for a modern-day folk singer/entertainer having a wonderful time interacting with a audience in an upclose and personal venue then give Mother Does Know Best a try.