Ever since his debut at 24 years old, Mark Erelli has exhibited an uncommon musical maturity. In a few short years, he’s got four albums to his name, over 700 concerts under his best, and multiple awards. During a time when most young artists are still searching for their own voices, he has quietly build one to the most impressive and varied reputations in modern roots music. On his latest album, Hope and Other Casualties (out March 2006 on Signature Sounds) he ups the ante, with a brave and searingly honest tour de force, cementing himself as one of the best young male singer/songwriters on the scene today. Hope and Other Casualties is an unapologetic and timeless collection of deeply personal and affecting songs, effortlessly moving from songs of love, politics, family, resignation, and redemption. Infused with heartfelt song-craft, invigorating tempos, and arresting melodies Erelli has crafted a near-perfect and career defining album.