In these two Cd's Mr. Cohen reads, or rather recites, his songs as the poetry that they have always been bringing a clearer and richer understanding of his works. The musicians and singers are all excellent, their solo performances and their backup performances enhance the experience in this performance. He has a touch of humor, somewhat more open than in some of his earlier work and as always you are startled to hear a song you thought you knew branch off in a new direction, turning the meaning of the song into something new.It is clear that Mr. Cohen is never finished with a poem or song there is often a new turn in the meaning so the listener must be alert for these sudden revelations. His songs and music, as always, have a timelessness on one side, and a strong connection to our times. This is, I think, one of the things that keeps Mr. Cohen always fresh and new, his ability to connect and merge with people and the world today while the songs connect to humanities most touching questions, feelings and experiences throughout time.In these Cd's you will feel many things, if you are open to them, laughter at yourself and the world around you, sorrow bringing you near to, or to tears, feeling of hope, despair; reminders of the goodness and the evil in humanity today and their connection to our common history. Mr. Cohen's works have stood the test of time and I believe they will continue to connect to the hearts and minds of generations yet to come.