Women, friendships and lost loves are some of the explanations behind hit songs offered by musicians on the “VHI Storytellers” CD. The all acoustic album features artists such as James Taylor, Dave Matthews, and John Popper, all of whom appeared on the popular VHI series.Stevie Nicks and Cheryl Crow’s duet rendition of Crow’s “Strong Enough” is a highlight of the CD. Both women harmonize and compliment each other’s voices as they sing about finding a man who is “strong enough” to handle their careers and fame.Perhaps the most surprising performance came from the ever- whining Jewel. She performed her hit song “Who Will Save Your Soul” but added a little twist to it that made it unique. Towards the end of her performance she broke into an improvisational Ella Fitzgerald like jazz scat. It was interesting because it showed the range of her voice.Another surprising performance came from the Counting Crows who spun the normally upbeat “Rain King” into a slow ballad. For once it was possible to decipher the lyrics and understand the true meaning of the song. Other key performances came from Natalie Merchant singing “Carnival,” David Bowie’s “China Girl” and The Eurythmics, who took their cult hit “Here Comes The Rain” and turned it into an eerie, echoing version. The best display of live musicianship and improvisation came from John Mellencamp as his bandmate Moe Z. M.D. broke into a rap in the midst of “Jack and Diane.” Throughout the song the lively audience participation drowned out Mellencamp as they sang along with the well-known chorus.The only disappointment of the CD was the fact that the background stories, which are the basis of the show, were not included on the actual album, but in the liner notes instead. It would have been more effective in reaching fans, to have the actual artists telling the stories.As a whole the CD was very well made. The live performances sounded as if they were recorded in an actual studio. Every song featured on the album is excellent and it is recommended to all those who enjoy live music or who are fans of MTV Unplugged.