Commemorating the 30th Anniversary of the film "The Last Waltz," 429 Records has released "Endless Highway: The Music of The Band," a tribute album to...well, The Band.
The compilation is comprised of a list of slightly recognizable artists contributing their best mix. As some may not be familiar with The Band's music, it can be described as a mix between country, rock and roll and a pinch of Motown soul.
The Band had its reign of stardom in 1968 until around 1975 and has been compared to groups as influential as The Beatles and the Rolling Stones. The group is most famous for their work with Bob Dylan and their historical 1969 Woodstock performance.
Lee Ann Womack's cover of "The Weight" is a true gem. Her soft yet powerful voice screams with emotion and augments the power of the lyrics. My Morning Jacket covers "It Makes No Difference" and turns it into an arena rock ballad that ends with a thunderous, emphasized saxophone solo, far different from the original, softer version.
Widespread Panic's version of "Chest Fever" starts off with a dark organ solo that climaxes in an explosion of horns brings that the song to life, giving it a soulful southern funk sound.
However, not all the covers on this tribute album do the originals justice. Jack Johnson's surfer voice seems out of place on "I Shall Be Released." Guster's rendition of "Wheels on Fire" sounds rushed, as if they are going through the motions. And the organ synthesizer on Gomez's adaptation of "Up on Cripple Creek" is loud and distorted to the point where it's distracting.
There really isn't a bad song on this album, yet there are only a few truly great ones. If not familiar with the music of The Band, this tribute album might be a good place to start. As for someone who is already a fan, the album is a good collectable but definitely not a must have.
Photo: Courtesy of Laron Fomby
