"Cleareyed" by Glen Phillips

I don't think I can sing the praises of Glen Phillips enough to do this talented and underrated singer/songwriter justice. He is best known for his work in Toad The Wet Sprocket, but his extensive solo work is definitely worth your attention.

His first post-Toad album arrived in 2001 and was called "Abulum." Despite wonderful songs like "Fred Meyers," "Back On My Feet," and "Darkest Hour," a song about the passing of his father, the record did not do well commercially. His more ambitious and polished follow-up, 2005's "Winter Pays For Summer," should have made him a superstar as it is close to a masterpiece. "Cleareyed" is just a small sample of gorgeous cuts from this remarkable album.

Phillips continues to record solo work, but in conjunction with a reunited Toad. He's done several collaborations with other artists, including projects such as Mutual Admiration Society and Works Progress Administration. His latest solo record, "Swallowed By The New," strongly influenced by his divorce, dropped in 2016.

"Be Careful" by Mutual Admiration Society

Late in the year 2000, Toad the Wet Sprocket's Glen Phillips teamed up with members of Nickel Creek to form Mutual Admiration Society, a collaboration that spawned a single self-titled record that was finally released three years after it was recorded.

It is a match made in folk heaven. The record is one of my favorites to play on a lazy Sunday. "Be Careful" is one of the best cuts, but the entire record is a pleasing affair for tired ears.