The Best Of Steve Goodman
Omnivore, 2021
9/10
Listen to The Best Of Steve Goodman
In Steve Goodman’s short life he made plenty of incredible music, and this Best Of compilation assembles studio recordings, live cuts and demos, two of which are previously unissued, as we’re treated to much of Goodman’s folk, country, blues and rock based song craft.
The album starts with the previously unreleased solo demo of “City Of New Orleans”, a song that Arlo Guthrie popularized, and “Yellow Coat” follows with Goodman’s inimitable storytelling and comforting pipes amid the soft acoustic guitar.
Further on, “You Never Even Call Me By My Name”, a co-write with John Prine, is a live version from Johnny Cash’s America, where Goodman’s charming pipes align with his flowing guitar, while fan favorite “Banana Republics” unfolds with much beauty and warmth in his elegant delivery.
Elsewhere, the frisky “Talk Backwards” showcases swift storytelling amid a snappy backdrop, and “Vegematic”, another classic Goodman tune, then truly illustrates his timeless and vivid song craft that’s never short on creativity. “As Time Goes By” exits the listen, and places much emphasis on Goodman’s diverse and flowing voice, and proves just why he was worthy of a Grammy in the area of folk music.
Goodman’s songs have been embraced and adored by millions (his work was covered by names like John Denver and Willie Nelson, among many more), and with about half of the tracks here being live, we get to experience his strong connection with an audience, where his instantly enjoyable demeanor makes the songs even that much more appealing.
A glimpse into the life of a songwriter who connected with people from all walks of life, whether you’re a longtime fan or a first time listener, you simply can’t not be drawn into Goodman’s infectious spirit, and the new liner notes from Lee Zimmerman make this an essential piece of the Steve Goodman legacy.
Travels well with: Todd Snider- Cash Cabin Sessions, Vol. 3; James McMurtry- The Horses And The Hounds