Longtime readers of my blog (all three of you) will know that I developed an artist crush on Dan Mangan last year.  Since I first heard about him about 18 months ago, he’s released an album, an EP, toured around the world, performed on the Today Show with his friend Shane Koyczan, and racked up awards and nominations.  It’s a cliche, but it really couldn’t happen to a nicer guy.

The track “Basket” from his album Nice, Nice, Very Nice is a touching song about growing old and the sad, frustrating moments that go along with it.  The song starts quietly, but Dan rachets up the emotion and builds to a riveting conclusion.  I heard him do a solo version during the festival at First Baptist Church, and he had us in the palm of his hand. Here’s another solo version that was recorded last month in Calgary.

In a few months, once I’ve worked on the fingerpicking a bit more, I’ll post my own version for your enjoyment / ridicule.