Reintarnation (Sire/Rhino, 2006)

The cover design echoes the Clash's "London Calling" and is a reminder of k.d. lang's punk sensibilities - and sense of humor. The 20 songs are a testament to the Canadian's songwriting ability and, of course, that voice.

It's the one-in-a-million voice that propelled lang into the mainstream music world, completely on her own terms, and in spite of her gender-bending image. And now after more than two decades of acclaimed CDs, lang is in a position to boast and reminisce a little. The biographical liner notes are a special pleasure, and the short reflections about each song from lang are like looking through a friend's photo album with the funny, personal narrative.

Half the fun is in seeing what's been included and what's been left out. This is the strictly country voice of lang. And except for "Don't Let the Stars Get In Your Eyes" from lang's breakthrough album "Shadowland," most of the songs are lesser known, including a limited-release single from 1983, "Friday Dance Promenade," and a previously unreleased song, "Change My Mind." Longtime fans will appreciate those rare offers, and newcomers will by enchanted by lang's masterful songwriting and exuberant presence.