Reviewed by Paul Poulton

Not for the timid, fainthearted or those of a nervous disposition. It's Christian country music, but not as we know it. Interest in Billy Joe Shaver had a boost recently when Bob Dylan name-checked him in the lyrics of "I Feel A Change Comin' On", Bob stating that he was listening to Billy Joe, and this is probably the album he was listening to. It's caustic in a good way, "If you don't love Jesus go to Hell" is an example of Shaver's bile spilling. "Take your rotten rags and righteousness and stuff them up yourself" is some more, and if you think you can kick Billy Joe's (errr how can I put this politely?) other word for donkey, then "you'd better move your foot mighty fast". Politeness is not at the top of this veteran songsmith's list of priorities. But then, there are sections of the Bible that are not too worried about gentleness of language either. I can see why Bob Dylan listens to Shaver's music, the man is gritty, provoking yet has that wry humour that Bob himself uses to such good effect. Billy's duet with Kris Kristofferson lets us know that some people can be so heavenly minded they're no earthly good. In "You Just Can't Beat Jesus Christ" (which features the great Johnny Cash) Billy tells us that Jesus is a "compound country kind of guy". This project is produced by John Carter Cash, (son of Johnny and June) who does a neat job while keeping a controlled roughness around the edges with fine electric guitar breaks by Jamie Hartford, and famous country picker/singer Randy Scruggs offering some tasty acoustic guitar. The 15 songs are assembled to high specifications and take no prisoners.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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