Since his 1986 studio debut Talk of Heaven, the Los Angeles-based singer-songwriter and producer has defied convention. Known best for his country-inspired work, Henry reinvigorates each new release by injecting hints of soul, blues, jazz and funk. He's produced albums by , and , and Housestar Hugh Laurie.

Henry's latest album, Reverie, ventures even deeper into new musical territory. He recorded and produced the album in his South Pasadena basement studio, aiming to forge a "raw, raucous and messy" sound. He left his windows open 鈥� with microphones attached 鈥� to capture the sounds of passing traffic and shouting neighbors. With a backing band that included 's drummer Jay Bellerose, ' guitarist , pianist Keefus Ciancia, and guest vocalist , Henry granted his players free license to let the music come as they felt it should. The result is a stripped-bare blend of blues and folk, its sonic naturalism starkly contrasted with Henry's nuanced musicianship.

Today's session of World Cafe showcases Henry without the street noise 鈥� he performs a solo set of four songs from Reverie with just his voice and acoustic guitar.

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