Libero: Music by Mike Wojniak

Late summer/early fall is my favorite time of year to take a road trip. Things are cooling off, winding down, and the scenery and light is at its most splendid.

When I drive, good driving music is a must. I'm about to get all pensive and self-reflective, so I need something that is both soothing and propelling. Something to which I can either cry or smile quietly while occasionally humming a line of harmony.

It should probably also have cello.

So, when Mike Wojniak sent me his latest album, Libero, and I heard the cello within the first few seconds, I was like, "This is my jam."

Actually, I said, "You had me at cell-o." Ahem, nerd.

Mike is a Columbus-based singer-songwriter who is a true musician. He started making music in Columbus as part local acts Harbor and Sheldon Marsh, and has more recently shared the stage with Denison Witmer and Saxon Shore, as well as groups like The Receiver and Red Wanting Blue. 

Loosely classified as alternative folk, Libero is tinged with nostalgia, and hits on some of those memorable relationship experiences that are perfect to ruminate over long stretches of highway. From missing the little things in a person to setting what you love free when it doesn't quite fit, Libero covers it all in a wash of effortless piano accompaniment, silky vocals, tight harmonies, and of course, undercurrents of cello and mandolin.

All in all, the perfect companion to your introspection, bursts of fall foliage and the open road. And your latte. Don't forget your latte.

Get Libero on Amazon, CDBaby or listen and learn more about Mike on MySpace music.

Here's some of Mike's music ("The Clock is a Myth") from his sophomore album, Momento Vivere: