Tan and Bass rely so heavily on voice-over narration that it sponges up the possibilities for genuine drama and emotion.

NEWYORKER: The Joy Luck Club

In "Long Hot Summer Days, " a cover of a tune by the late John Hartford, Watkins is supported by bass, drums, electric guitar, Dobro and harmony vocals, but her fiddling mastery and perfectly pitched voice are the real stars.

NPR: Sara Watkins: Summertime Blues