While the first two tracks, "You're Just A Country Boy" and "Away Down The River" are impeccably played, Krauss' voice lacks the spark that initially drew my interest. Her duet with James Taylor, "How's The World Treating You," unfortunately reminds me of what I've never liked about Taylor's music, particularly that it's mellow to the extent of being vacant. Krauss does attempt to summon some enthusiasm here, but carrying Taylor on her back winds up dragging her down as well.
Thankfully, songs like "Sawing On The Strings," which is a duet with Tony Rice, as well as a cover of Gordon Lightfoot's "Shadows", illustrate her talents in a better light. Krauss and Price generate a gentle energy on the former that brings the song to life. A similar warmth and emotional commitment is also present on the latter, as Krauss turns out a poignant rendition of one of Lightfoot's better songs.
None of the other material, regrettably, manages to rise to the same level. On the softer material I've heard her sing before, Krauss has capably enlivened them while respecting their gentle nature. She doesn't achieve the same success often enough on this recording, though.
A Hundred Miles Or More: Live From The Tracking Room has impeccable sound quality and great visuals, but the overall performance by Alison Krauss and her guests is somewhat static. Except for a few instances, a great deal of the warmth and passion that usually makes her singing so special seems to have been forsaken.
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