The beauty of mountain music i.e. fleet picking, sophisticated strumming and a generally genial vibe, is all over Willie Hugh Nelson’s acoustic classic album that fits in the amiable mood created by him and his guests. 18 classic hits from the virtuoso, tests the waters of country music with modern day and old legends from various genres of music.

It was from Texas to Nashville that his offbeat, nasal phrasing and dislike of rhinestone trimmings made him radically different from other country musicians. So the tracks here are slightly repackaged in an attempt to pass off old material as new, keeping with the times. Taken from his numerous albums, these tracks are seasoned classics in their own right with the gentle performance of the short and sweet country standards.

The entertainment to this live jamboree begins with the intoxicating Whiskey River (with Sheryl Crow) and moves ahead with pieces like the nasal Always on my mind (with Jon Bon Jovi and Richie Sambora) compared to bassy Elvis Presley effect, Night Life (with Ray Rice) to Dead Flowers (with Ryan Adams, Hank Williams III & Keith Richards). The mesmerizing vocals of Grammy winner, Norah Jones gets a hold on you on Lonestar, which incidentally was also the title for Nelson’s record label in 1978.

Country buffs could also tune in for more acoustic work in Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain (with Vince Gill) a number 1 hit upon release in1975, or even the witty look at outlaw country in Mamma don’t let your babies grow up to be cowboys (with Matchbox 20) and the two beautifully restrained Nelson and Family performances in On the Road Again and Move it on over. In Don’t fade away (Brian McKnight & Bill Evans) Nelson adds glitter to this glittering line-up of artists. The weather – beaten, straggly beard, top-halted character all of Nelson, breathes new life in For all its worth (with Sheryl Crow and Bill Evans). Other fine pieces are Mendocino Country (with Lee Ann Womack) the superhit Good Hearted Woman (with Toby Keith) and Till I gain control again (with Emmylou Harris).

The numerous guest appearances here, come as a royal tribute to this aging country singer, whom audiences still love and visualize as old salt, looking rough and playing a battered guitar, with his headbands having become souvenirs in the same way as Elvis’ scarves. Nelson has become a template for his work, which contains great music, crippling country and dazzling lyrics. Even today he is a true outlaw, a fine entertainer and arguably the greatest living legend and performer in country music since Hank Williams. In both performance and arrangement, impressive guitar work, this album excels.

Rating: *** 

Reviewed by Verus Ferreira