Ever wonder what happens with those "artist-in-residence" programs at schools and performance halls? I've been writing about music for going on four decades, and I'm never sure about that, myself. Cathy Fink has worked with that program at the Music Center at Strathmore (a performance center just a few miles west of me) for more than fifteen years, and Chao Tian was an Artist in Residence there in 2015. Tian joined Fink and her longtime musical partner Marcy Marxer to record this album, which pretty much does exactly what the title says.

Cathy Fink & Marcy Marxer with Chao Tian From China to Appalachia (Community Music)

And more. Yes, there are traditional songs from the aforementioned Appalachia and China, but the trio wanders through Africa and Europe with its selections and influences. It becomes apparent fairly early on that it's a lot more fun to listen to these songs than to try and parse their origins--even for those who might be inclined to do so.

The writing and playing are meticulous, as might be expected, but the trio meshes easily, and it's the spirit of the performances that really drive this album. The production leaves plenty of space for each instrument and voice, giving these songs an inviting, open feel.

In some ways, this is a studied effort by three women who have honed their skills for decades. But that shortchanges the creativity and sheer delight of this collaboration. The three take the roots of their songs and then add a twist here and there to build something new. Utterly enchanting.

Jon Worley