Bits and Baubles

Released in 1999 as a Japanese-exclusive EP, Bits and Baubles serves as a curated collection of rarities, live-style recordings, and brief musical interludes. Coming off the massive success of her debut and the more polished Spirit, this release returns Jewel to the stark, percussive folk style that defined her early years in San Diego coffeehouses. The tracklist is anchored by extended versions of fan favorites like 'Innocence Maintained' and 'Who Will Save Your Soul,' but its true character lies in the 'baubles' - short tracks under a minute long that function as poetic fragments. These vignettes, such as 'Lost' and 'Miracle,' showcase her ability to establish a mood with minimal instrumentation. Critically, it highlights her technical vocal range and her self-taught rhythmic guitar style, which uses the body of the instrument as a drum. It remains a sought-after piece for collectors, representing the bridge between her 90s folk-pop dominance and her later stylistic experimentations.