As a member of psych-folk outfit Espers, half of the family duo the Baird Sisters, and as a solo artist, Philadelphia-based singer/songwriter Meg Baird has lent her lovely voice to a variety of folk-based projects. Baird's true roots are deeply entwined in the Celtic/Anglo folk traditions as well as in American; she's well-versed in traditional ballads and songs, and her delicate, crystalline lilt fits perfectly in that milieu. Still, Baird is better known within the indie and underground rock scene than the more establishment streams of the folk community. In 2005, Baird met and established a friendship with Oxford, England's folk chanteuse Sharron Kraus, who later relocated to Philadelphia. Baird, Kraus, and Espers cellist Helena Espvall recorded an album together. It was released by Bo Weavil in 2006 as Leaves from Off the Tree. Baird's solo debut, Dear Companion, issued in 2007 by Drag City, featured a wide selection of cover material and two originals that displayed not only her many influences, but her command of the many interrelated languages of folk music. Baird toured the album and then went back to work with Espers, who recorded and released III in 2009. After extensive touring and a little time off, Baird cut her sophomore solo album on Drag City entitled Seasons on Earth; it was released in September of 2011, and featured special guest Helena Espvall. ~ Nate Knaebel & Thom Jurek, Rovi
