"Before You Hit the Ground" is one of those easy-to-remember folkie anthems, but the simplicity of ballads like "Chasing the Wind" truly get to the essence of his soul and poetry. On the latter, he asks, "Will I ever get it right? I've searched without and within." Yes, he gets it right here.

There's variety aplenty. "For You (Until the End)" is a country-rock ballad with multiple voice tracking and choral support; "Sweet Angel" is a heavenly duet featuring Megan Mount creating visions of Nashville, with lyrics by Marco's wife, Roslyn; "Learn to Live" provides more aural surprises, structured alongside the memories shared; "She's Alright" is a finger-snapper that makes you recall the cheerfulness of Roger Miller.

And that's the essence of "Diary of a Recluse." Catracchia has been operating on the dark side of a shadow for far too long; it's time to get in the sun and limelight. For listeners and fans, here's an artist with tales, themes and topics that touch your heart and spirit, so listen up and get on the bandwagon.

The disc comes with the desirable and appreciated lyrics; and check on the liner notes to see how many superb vocalists and musicians have provided their time and talent and seal of approval.

Richman's compositions reflect a vision that could be anywhere, anytime, with titles perhaps exacting a moment in time, an experience, a memory. The title tune gives the CD its vital oceanic image; tracks like "Kahuku" and "Down by the River" help define and shape his music. As is the case on most jazz CDs, there are prolonged riffs and solos — perhaps improv punctuation, too - by the guitarist and his crew, rendered in three-quarter time, for the most part. "Storm Before the Calm" displays his musicianship handsomely, offering pacing, variety and mood shifts, part of the complexity of the climate of a storm.

This novelty, with Oktoberfest-appropriate polka tempo, is a whimsical tale of Uncle Willie, who goes waltzing with bears — raggy bear, shaggy bears and more. The vocal performance? Well, not the best — but Haugen captures the escapist mood of the tune. Wunderbar!

You won't find it in the stores. To order, write to hakumele@aol.com.