Five Essential Guy Clark Albums
Old No. 1 (1975)
Our first glimpse at Clark’s version of the truth contains “L.A. Freeway” and “Desperados Waiting for a Train.” 
Better Days (1983)
With the always-in-season “Homegrown Tomatoes” and the heartrending “Randall Knife,” Clark runs the gamut in remarkable fashion.
Boats to Build (1992)
Perhaps his sparest work but filled with wit and elegantly told stories like “Baton Rouge” and “How’d You Get This Number.” 
Dublin Blues (1995)
“I wish I was in Austin, hmm, mmm, in the Chili Parlor bar, drinking Mad Dog margaritas and not carin’ where you are.”
Workbench Songs (2006)
His latest and still one of his best, capturing joy and pain, roadhouse parking lots, and Mexicans visiting Graceland.
DVDnds
Live From Austin TX (New West)
His 1989 appearance on Austin City Limits, not the best song selection but an interesting representation of where he was at the time.
Heartworn Highways (Snapper UK)
A 1981 film that does an exceptional job of capturing the scene that sprung up around the Clark’s dining-room table.
This article appears in September 12 • 2008.