The eerie, otherworldly voice of John Jacob Niles (1892-1980) was like none other in folk music. His performing career spanned 70 years and earned him the admiration of everyone from Franklin D. Roosevelt to Bob Dylan. Part serious scholar, part flamboyant showman, he sang both traditional material and original compositions while accompanying himself on a handcrafted dulcimer. Recorded in 1957, I Wonder As I Wander captures this remarkable artist just as he was being rediscovered by a new generation of folk music fans. The tunes here mix romantic balladry (“Go ‘Way from My Window,” ”Black Is the Color of My True Love’s Hair”) with folk narratives (“John Henry,” “The Lass from the Low Country”) and carols (“Waken, Little Sheperd”). Worth special mention are Niles’ famous version of the title number and his own haunting “Venezuela.” His shivery highs and mournful lows allow him to fully embody these timeless songs. More than just a highly influential folk pioneer, Niles was a unique figure whose work still defies easy categorization. I Wonder If I Wander offers a glimpse into the world of a true American original.