While Edwards has been praised by fans and critics for nearly a decade, she's still somewhat a little treasure to music fans. The type of artist that we know one day family and friends will discover, but for now we cherish as our own. The same can't be said for Edwards' collaborator on Voyageur. Much has been made about the fact that Justin Vernon (Bon Iver) became a musical guide for Edwards on this album. Last year was a big year for Justin, his album Bon Iver, Bon Iver was an overwhelming success that includes Grammy nods next month. It made many wonder how his dreamy and expansive soundscapes would mesh with Edwards alt-country lean? The truth of Voyaguer is that Vernon's presence can be felt, but Edwards can't be overshadowed. So much of what we gravitated towards on her first few albums is what draws you in again on this latest collection. She can be clever and funny as on the opening track "Empty Threat" where you may question her sincerity about 'moving to America.' She paints heartbreaking love and loss on songs like "Pink Champagne." And she's near anthemic on "Change the Sheets."

Vernon co-produced the album with Edwards and plays on nearly every song, but his main credit may be simply inspiring Edwards to broaden the way she approaches writing and recording. In addition to Justin, Kathleen welcomes a number of other musicians into the fold on Voyageur. Those includes Long Winters frontman and songwriter John Roderick whose presence is substantial. He plays on a number of songs and even co-wrote a couple with Edwards. The Scottish band Stornoway play on Voyageur and Norah Jones adds some backing vocals on the album's closing number "For The Record."

Kathleen Edwards's Voyageur
XPN's CD of the Month - February, 2012

Check out the complete list of CD of the Month. Join the CD of the Month Club today. Pick up Voyageur at Amazon.com. Your purchase that starts here supports WXPN Public Radio.