VARIOUS ARTISTS
It'll Come To You...The Songs Of John Hiatt (Vanguard Records)
Reviewed by Ron Saranich

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John Hiatt is one of those singer/song writers, like Townes Van Zandt, Leonard Cohen, Jimmie Dale Gilmore and others, who has had more success as song writer than as a performer of his songs. It'll Come To You, issued in 2003, is full of covers of wonderfully written numbers that tell delightfully interesting stories. There are 10 previously released songs, plus three new tracks.

If you've never heard of John Hiatt before, you are in for a treat. The man can flat out write poignant, emotional music. Long time fans of Hiatt will appreciate the care given to his work by some of the biggest names in rock. There is something for everyone here, from Bonnie Raitt's hard rocking version of "Thing Called Love," to EmmyLou Harris' heart breaking "Icy Blue Heart."

As far as tribute recordings go, this is one of the best. My only quibble is why is this the third John Hiatt tribute to be released by the record companies? The man is still alive and doing quite well thank you. And so will you if you purchase this disc. Every time I listen to it, I find myself smiling over a Hiatt lyric I had previously missed. Now that's a bargain.

© 2003 - Ron Saranich