Hank Williams Songbook (2003)

Varese’s new 18 track collection of Hank Williams covers (not to be confused with a similarly titled 1991 collection on Columbia) is a welcome gathering of interpretations dating from the late ’50s through the early ’70s. These tracks were collected from a variety of sources, rather than purpose-built for this album -- resulting in a variety that’s less forced than the sort of all-star tribute albums that have been epidemic over the past decade. A few tracks were taken from complete tribute albums by a single artist (Del Shannon, Don Gibson, Johnny Cash, Roy Acuff), but most are one-off singles or album sides that find the artist covering a favorite Williams tune. ¶ The range of styles, and the ease with which Williams songs adapt to them, is impressive. Spare, downcast readings like Johnny Cash’s 1957 take of "(I Heard That) Lonesome Whistle Blow" are just as effective as Jerry Lee Lewis’ party-styled "Jambalaya (On the Bayou)" and "Cold Cold Heart." Pop crooner Del Shannon is surprisingly convincing as he echoes Williams’ yodel, Wilma Lee and Stoney Cooper give a hard mountain twang to Williams’ "Singing Waterfall," and Rusty & Doug Kershaw render "Why Don’t You Love Me" as Everlyesque rock ’n’ roll. ¶ B.J. Thomas, Don Gibson and Sue Thompson provide the farthest stretches. Thomas turns "I’m So Lonesome I Could Cry" into a fine mid-60s top-10 pop single, Gibson recorded "Your Cheatin’ Heart" in an oddly compelling early ’70s funk style, and Thompson sings "I Can’t Help it (If I’m Still in Love With You)" as a treacly ’50s ballad, replete with violins (not fiddles!) and background harmonies. ¶ This is a really refreshing look at Williams songbook, viewed through disparate eyes that were unified by Williams talent. 4-1/2 stars, if allowed fractional ratings.
 
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