Billy Joe Shaver,
A Tribute to Billy Joe Shaver

Label: Compadre Records
Year: 2005

(4 out of 5)

On August 16, 2004, more than a dozen artists gathered in Austin to celebrate the 65th birthday of a true honky tonk hero: Billy Joe Shaver. The capacity crowd at the Paramount Theatre witnessed a once-in-a-lifetime assemblage of Texas music icons. Now, thanks to Compadre Records, those of us who missed out can share in the celebration as well.

Contemporaries Guy Clark ("The Randall Knife"), Joe Ely ("Honky Tonk Masquerade"), and Jimmy Dale Gilmore ("Hearts-A-Bustin'") turn in strong performances to honor their longtime friend. Younger artists hold their own as well, especially Bruce Robison and Kelly Willis ("Ride Me Down Easy"), Cory Morrow ("Live Forever"), and Todd Snider ("Waco Moon").

Billy Joe Shaver isn't a man content to sit idly by while others toast his legacy, so he took his share of time at the microphone. The a cappella "You Wouldn't Know Love" showcases Shaver's vocal prowess even after more than three decades in the music business. His intro to "Try and Try Again" captures his genuine humility and sense of gratitude for a remarkable birthday party.

Compadre gifts us with not only the songs, but stories as well. Robert Earl Keen shares perhaps the best story, recalling his chance meeting with an irascible but lovable Billy Joe in an Austin bar.

The highlight is Snider's "Waco Moon," an emotional remembrance of the late Eddy Shaver. It may not be the most lyrically rewarding song, but Snider's conflicting anger and sadness shines through. A bonus video of Snider's performance is included on the CD.

Here's hoping for future recordings of Billy Joe's 75th birthday, 85th birthday….

Buy: Lone Star Music, Amazon

June 5, 2005