Billy Joe Shaver

Live at Billy Bob’s Texas (Smith Music Group)

The last dozen years of Billy Joe Shaver’s life can be described as an unpredictable horse opera. This CD/DVD set ties a glittering bow on his past, offering proof he’s not only survived, but that now, into his 70s, Shaver continues to thrive. Other live Shaver discs are available, but the DVD here offers a hi-def view of his commanding stage presence. Most of his best-known tunes are included, “Old Chunk of Coal,” “Georgia on a Fast Train,” “Live Forever,” along with a couple of new ones: “Wacko From Waco,” co-written with Willie Nelson, recounts his recent run-in with the law, while “The Git Go” darkly mixes politics and religion. Led by sturdy guitar work from Jeremy Lynn Woodall, Shaver’s songs continue to shine in spiritual and spunky ways.

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This article appears in August 17 • 2012.

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