1991. College. A new and strange place. I was hours from home and all family and friends were absent. People can get lost in those times. I struggled with who I was, trying to believe I would make friends. I did, eventually when Bob came to JMU. I remain grateful for that.

But for freshman year, I was alone. I dove into music. The Smiths, R.E.M., 10000 Maniacs, Classic/Southern Rock, The Cure, etc. They were all there.

I listened to WXJM. I won a contest and was rewarded as stack of CDs. In that stack was The Ocean Blue and The Innocence Mission.

I’ve always had a soft spot for angelic female voices. Karen Peris’ voice is one of the best. Fragile and strong, hollow and full. It was once said she can sound like sorrow in any speed. It’s true. And it’s beautiful. The first album I heard, “Umbrella”, will always remind me of freshman year at JMU. One day I may own the vinyl, but right now, at $500/ea it’s a bit out of reach. For now, I have the CD. Just like I did 35 years ago.

This album is new to me, but contains a song I’d heard before. I heard “Moon River” years ago and sought it out on the plane back from Texas. I was returning from being with dad in his last days. As if knowing his passing would grow harder, I sought out music. Some of his last words were about the power of music. It’s a refuge to help process and create the frame in which my last moments with him would sit and to be gazed upon later.

It was no coincidence that I sought out Karen’s voice. It helped me in what was one of the loneliest times of my life. It was no coincidence that this album contained “Over the Rainbow” and “What a Wonderful World.” The two songs were sung by Israel Kamakawiwoʻole in a medley. I danced with momma to that song on my wedding day. And “Over the Rainbow” played in the room dad was dying.

You’re right dad, music is powerful. I love you and am so grateful you loved music and passed it on.