Various Artists "Introducing Townes Van Zandt Via the Great Unknown" (Forthesakeofthesong, 2009)

Worth getting to know

'Introducing Townes Van Zandt Via the Great Unknown' is a selection of nineteen cover versions of Townes Van Zandt classics by contemporary “unknown” artists who have been inspired by his music.

Playing on the idea that Townes Van Zandt himself remains largely unknown and unknowable, the album also represents the end of a decade of growing interest in one of the most important and elusive figures in alternative country music. Some of the “unknown” on 'Introducing...' are new artists such as the 18 year old Lessons in Time. Some are unknown by virtue of being members of bigger and better known bands such as J. Tiller of Fleet Foxes. Some of the artists have earned the monicker through a lifetime of hugging the peripheries such as Jad Fair of Half Japanese. All have something of their own to offer to this wonderful compilation.

The CD itself contains comprehensive notes on each of the artists and links to artist websites. Accompanying artwork and a complimentary MySpace page shows just how far this project is both a tribute to Townes Van Zandt and a promotion of all that remains “unknown” in contemporary folk and Americana. The album features artists from Australia, Sweden, UK, USA and Ireland. While not enormously varied, it does add a welcome international feel to proceedings.

'Introducing...' alternates between fairly loyal solo-acoustic renditions and more inventive re-imaginings. Among the former, while J. Tillman's 'My Proud Mountains' feels a little uninspired, Gustav Haggren's 'Fare Thee Well, Miss Carousel' is heart-stoppingly beautiful and Jad Fair's acoustic footstomping rendition of 'Turnstyled, Junkpiled' is a brilliant and raucous conclusion to the album. For the most part it is the re-imaginings which are the more successful. Telafonica's version of 'St. John the Gambler' is led by a sultry double bass and evokes Nick Cave's 'Murder Ballads'. The Be Good Tanyas' intense 'Waiting Around to Die' and Great Lake Swimmers ethereal 'Our Mother The Mountain' are other highlights. Stephen Duffy & The Lilac Time have more than met the daunting task of contributing 'Pancho and Lefty', its arguably one of the best versions of this oft-covered tune.

Not only does 'Introducing...' encourage you to revisit, or seek out for the first time, the music of Townes Van Zandt, it demonstrates his continued legacy and the strength and depth of his vision. What's more it provides a platform for some truly talented “unknown” artists to raise their profiles. An important project and a fascinating album.

Date review added:  Monday, October 12, 2009
Reviewer:  David Harry
Reviewers Rating:
Related web link:  Links to artists and information on the project