At the height of the singer/songwriter period, Rankin quietly became one of the key voices of the genre. Silver Morning ranks as one of the best and most representative albums of that time. Once again, Rankin does a fine job covering Gordon Lightfoot (“Pussywillows, Cat Tails”), but he really shines on his reworkings of the Beatles’ songbook. His vocal and guitar arrangements on Lennon and McCartney’s “Blackbird,” and particularly on “Penny Lane,” show him to be one of the best interpreters of the Beatles’ music. Moreover, in lending the songs his distinctive sound, they transcend being mere cover versions. The title cut and “Haven’t We Met” illustrate his continued ability not only to play wonderful guitar and sing like an angel, but also to write great songs. This is easily one of his best albums. – Stephen J. Matteo