The Band was a band in the truest sense, in that each member played an irreplaceable role. Still, Arkansas-born singer-drummer Levon Helm was perhaps the most vital component of the legendary group, not just for his vocals and musicianship but also as the sole American in a group of Canadians playing American music. Helm's been a less than prolific solo artist since his days with the Band -- health problems haven't helped -- so it's exciting to hear him back in action with Dirt Farmer, his first record in 25 years. The album collects some of Helm's lifelong favorites, as well as songs from such fans as Buddy and Julie Miller and Steve Earle. Age suits Helm's singing just fine, particularly in light of his victory over throat cancer, and his playing is perfect for such an earthy outing. In an age of so much spit and polish, songs such as the title track and "The Girl I Left Behind" hearken back to a time when music was made by hand.

-- Joshua Klein