The Joe South Tribute Album

Joe South doesn't get much credit outside of the snobbiest rock snob circles, but the man wrote some classic tunes that became huge hits for other artists, like "Hush," "Rose Garden," "Down in the Boondocks," "Games People Play," and "Untie Me." Jackpine Social Club decided it was about time South had a tribute record, and they rounded up 12 artists to honor the man with some very reverent cover versions. Apart from one or two songs -- Otis Clay's deep soul version of "Walk a Mile in My Shoes" (which shows he hasn't lost a step and should be next in line for rediscovery) and Persephone's Bees' indie cute take on "Games People Play" -- the mood is very earnest, singer/songwriter-ish, and straight-ahead. Not very snobby at all, the album would play very well in small cafes where music like this can be found. Too bad nobody (apart from Chuck Prophet on his almost mariachi romp through "Don't It Make You Wanna Go Home") captured the weird pop side of South's writing and performing but, considering the artists involved, that didn't seem to be on the agenda at all. This isn't the final word on Joe South's legacy, but it is a step in the right direction. ~ Tim Sendra