Return of the Grievous Angel: A Tribute to Gram Parsons

by Katrina Martin

When my friend gave me a tape of this album, I'd never even heard of Gram Parsons. I loved it so much, I bought the album and learned from the liner notes he was "the subversive Harvard-educated hillbilly who invented country-rock in the mid-Sixties." I've also learned that Parsons wrote and recorded some of the most classic songs of all time ("She," "Sin City," and "Hickory Wind"). He even inspired the Rolling Stones to write one of their best songs, "Wild Horses." Now when I find someone else who's into Parsons, it's like finding another member of a secret club--we're both thrilled to find someone to gush excitedly to about his genius.

Parsons was an artist before his time and his career has striking similarities to other groundbreaking artists including Jimi Hendrix and Janis Joplin. In fact, he missed the death age, 27, by just one year, overdosing at the age of 26. His career was short and sweet, but left a definite mark on country and rock music, influencing the Rolling Stones, the Eagles, and current country-rock groups the Jayhawks and Wilco.

After he died, Emmylou Harris, his longtime musical partner, often performed his songs and spread his influence. Harris put the album together and sings on three tracks, duets with Chrissie Hynde, Beck and Sheryl Crow. Harris created a wonderfully touching tribute to Parsons by finding an impressive array of artists to effectively perform his songs.

Other artists who add to the album's charm are Wilco, Whiskeytown, Lucinda Williams, Gillian Welch and Elvis Costello. One of the best interpretations of Parsons' work is "Ooh Las Vegas" by the Cowboy Junkies. The slowed-down tempo, breathy vocals and twangy guitars make this track a treat. Other highlights include the Hynde-Harris duet "She," "High Fashion Queen," a rockin' Chris Hillman and Steve Earle duet and Williams' stunning interpretation of the title track. The album features tracks from Parsons' stints with the Byrds and the Flying Burrito Brothers and Parsons' solo career.

Fans of any of these artists should make it a point to pick up this album. They'll find a pleasant surprise--membership in the secret Gram Parsons fan club, expansion of their musical horizons, and the distinct pleasure of owning one of the most perfectly-crafted tribute albums around.