Various Artist - Livin', Lovin', Losin' - Songs Of The Louvin Brothers (2003)

Given their impact on generations of country, country-rock, and bluegrass acts, it's amazing the Louvins haven't had a modern tribute before. Unlike tribute albums that stumble through inconsistent performances and ill-matched material, this one soars, the selections well matched to the paired artists. Joe Nichols and Rhonda Vincent capture "Cash on the Barrelhead's" sassy humor. Emmylou Harris--who spearheaded the Louvin revival--and Rodney Crowell are relaxed on the Louvin hit "My Baby's Gone." Merle Haggard and the album's producer Carl Jackson capture the anguish of "Must You Throw Dirt in My Face." Glen Campbell and Leslie Satcher wring maximum passion from "When I Stop Dreaming." Obscure gospel tunes receive equally stellar treatment. "Keep Your Eyes on Jesus" teams Pam Tillis with Johnny Cash (handling the recitation) and the Jordanaires. Marty Stuart and Del McCoury establish the Louvins' bluegrass ties on "Let Us Travel, Travel On." By seamlessly blending traditional and modern Jackson's created a magnificent tribute that doubles as a fine introduction to the Louvins' earthy, breathtaking majesty. --Rich Kienzle