The Wailin’ Jennys aren’t a spaced-out jamband. They are three outstanding singer/ songwriters who put a twist on the folk/ rock genre. The “wailin’” refers to perfect harmonies, not searing instrumental passages The Wailin’ Jennys aren’t a spaced-out jamband. They are three outstanding singer/ songwriters who put a twist on the folk/ rock genre. The “wailin’” refers to perfect harmonies, not searing instrumental passages. The band’s credo is best summed up in its song “One Voice,” which appears on its exquisite 40 Days (Red House Records): “This is the sound of voices three, singing together in harmony, surrendering to the mystery.” Cara Luft, who sings alto, is affectionately known as “Jenny Van Halen” (i.e., she can really play that guitar). The other Jennys are Nicky Mehta, who sings the midrange, and soprano Ruth Moody, who is also a classically trained pianist. Think the best aspects of Kate and Anna McGariggle, Linda Thompson and even a little Joni Mitchell with a subtle Celtic tinge. This trio is the most powerful vocal outfit I’ve heard in years, and it has a cross-genre appeal from country to folk and Celtic.