Last Rights: Life & Times of
Last Rightsis an odd but enlightening "CD documentary" of the Texas singer-songwriter's life and work produced byChinga Chavin, a crazed Texan in theKinky Friedmanmold. Given its sepulchral title and the fact that it was recorded the year before he died, this set has the feel of a farewell note. Throughout its 23 cuts, newly recorded solo versions of Van Zandt's best-known tunes--"Tecumseh Valley" and "If I Needed You" among them--are interspersed with poignant and honest comments. He tells the story of how he wrote "Pancho & Lefty" and explains howLightnin' Hopkinsinfluenced his music. The Hopkins interview snippet is followed by "Brand New Companion," the memorable tribute tune Van Zandt wrote to Hopkins using many of the Houston bluesman's most identifiable songwriting characteristics. Another highlight is a version of "Cowboy Junkies Lament," a tune he wrote to the Canadian band after a shared tour. The final interview segments offer wonderful insight into how bright and emotionally intuitive this irreplaceable songwriter really was. Ultimately,Last Rightsis a valuable addition to any serious Van Zandt fan's collection.--Robert Baird