Bill, well you know me; I'll call it as I see it. Fact is, I really liked it. I'm sure part of that is because it's all acoustic. That alone makes it the most enjoyable listen (for me) here on the Zone in quite awhile (yeah, I know it's an arranger forum). Takes me back to Viet Nam, Bob Dylan, Marvin Gaye, and all the great message/protest songs of that era. Given the changing mood in this country at the moment, I suspect you'll be seeing a lot more of this type of song. Some might see it as somewhat contrived or formulaic (war, blood, dead babies, dead buddies, etc.) but I don't really. If you're trying to make a statement, it probably should be a little graphic. I can't really see adding any kind of percussion as this type of tune is best presented with just acoustic guitar and vocal. I think even the studio-produced, commercial version should be done the same way. It keeps the honesty. Whatever you do, DON'T do an arranger version . JMHO.

chas