For years, Smithfield Fair has planted thistles in the bayous, only to watch them seed, flourish and re-germinate again. Its loyal following has also sprouted into an expanding regional base that, too, has evolved with the Baton Rouge Scotsmen. When it came time to commemorate its 20th anniversary, the Fair didn’t just want to hawk a cheesy greatest hits package glorifying what it once sounded like. With the return of founding member Bob Smith (2005) and the natural evolution of songs changing due to better energy, different keys, arrangements and tempos, Smithfield Fair opted to re-wax 11 of the 20 songs listed here to reflect its current sound. Since the other nine are relatively recent recordings, they appear here in original form. As a result, this commemorative collection isn’t simply a retrospective examination of the band’s storied past, but, more importantly, where it stands today.

With Smithfield Fair’s subtle wizardry, resounding harmonies, haunting melodies, floating accordion riffs, feathery guitar lines and cleanly picked runs, it still champions of all things Scottish. There are songs dealing with chapters of Scottish history including the pillaging Vikings, the Jacobite rebellion and the inept, farcical leadership of Bonnie Prince Charlie. Several beautifully crafted songs express an insatiable longing for the homeland, even if you’ve only visited there once (“A Fine Homecoming Day”). Smithfield Fair also gets by with a little help from their friends, most notably Scottish-American folk icon Alex Beaton, who takes the lead on “My Heart’s in the Highlands,” a relaxing duet with Jan Smith. Add the fact that every one of these nuggets represents the most requested live show staples, this collection truly represents the best of the best.