As a songwriter, she manages to cast some new light on the timeless subject of love and personal relationships, but also addresses subjects like spousal abuse, an old news story, and the bane of Florida -- hurricanes. In her liner notes, she also makes reference to some of the real-life people she has met in her travels who were the inspiration for some of the songs. She adds that "they are all very real, semi-precious victims who crossed a fool's path." That may have been in part the genesis of her latest CD, "Fool," though there is also a song by that name.

She is joined mainly by musicians from her home area, including Mitch Corbin on various stringed instruments including guitar, mandolin and acoustic bass. Jason Thomas is also heard on mandolin and fiddle. Alan Coward is heard on the understated drums and percussion, and Doug Matthews is also featured on acoustic bass. There is a guest appearance by Lucinda Williams doing backup vocal on one track. Though bluegrass is often an underlying influence, the band can move into country with some added steel guitar. The CD was co-produced by Binion and David Schweitzer, the owner of the small independent label on which the CD was released. They did an outstanding job of keeping everything tasteful.

One of the interesting things about Terri Binion's compositions is how the lyrics and the musical setting can sometimes be at odds -- with a happy-sounding tune accompanying some sad lyrics. The musical mood of the "Fool" is generally bright and appealing, even while the subject matter can turn weighty.

Leading off is the song with Lucinda Williams adding the backing vocal, "Gayleanne," one of those people Terri encountered who she says inspired her. The musical setting is a mix of bluegrass and old-timey sounds, and Williams' harmony vocals add a very appropriate touch.