Melissa Ferrick “Freedom” What Are Records. I did a double take when I saw this on the shelf. Haven’t reviewed it? I’ve listened a dozen times or more. Missed it? Live sounding, yet more polished or controlled than her live shows, Freedom was apparently written after the breakup of a three and a half year relationship. But long time bassist Marika Tjelios is still at her side, as she was the last time I saw Ferrick live. The dozen folk-rock tunes are funkier than her last release, also on W.A.R., but Ferrick doesn’t fall into the cliché trap. Ultimately its her distinctive strained vocal style, held back as though by force, and her catchy tunes that make you want to dance and clap your hands. Perhaps in response to those who would overlook her for her acoustic ways, Ferrick includes an alternate version of the title track. It’s been more than a year since I saw her live, but I remember the show and devoted fans that turned out, as though it were yesterday. Maybe it will happen again soon. www.war.com/ 2401 Broadway, Boulder Co 80304. - Ment