Let's cut to the chase: Gene Clark was one of the finest songwriters of the rock era.  He is also still vastly underrecognized, even in the context of his most renowned band, the Byrds. FULL CIRCLE  sets out to change that, demonstrating how influential Clark was in the development of folk-rock, country-rock, and psychedelic pop. Tribute compilations are often dodgy at best. A massive two-disc, 36-track set like this one could be even more daunting. Luckily, FULL CIRCLE'S contributors flatter their subject. Sure, there are plenty of reverent, Byrdsian takes on Clark classics, but when the contributors stretch, it's more rewarding. Michael Carpenter's dazzling solo treatment of "That's Alright By Me" opens; he appears later on a fine Finkers' track.  The Kennedys' "Here Without You" uses a travel alarm clock as subtle percussion. Sweden is well represented, with the Merrymakers, Happydeadmen, and Mop Tops all adding ace tracks. Sid Griffin offers "Why Not Your Baby" and a sincere appreciation in the liner notes. Myracle Brah's "Eight Miles High" is surprisingly heavy, using perhaps Husker Du's version as a starting point. Bill Lloyd's "TheWorld Turns All Around Her" has just the right blend of hesitancy and harmony that is unmistakeably Gene. The Shazam play "Is Yours Is Mine" tantalizingly trippy. More great tracks: CVS, the Grip Weeds, Ray Brandes, Mayflies USA...truth be told, there's only a couple of clinkers in the lot. Fittingly, Gene's son Kai, brother Rick, and collaborator Carla Olson all contribute notable tracks, adding warmth and weight to this heartfelt artifact.
This comp accomplishes what few tributes can: to illustrate the extent of an artist's worldwide legacy, and to propel it onward. Besides being sonically gratifying on its own, FULL CIRCLE will inspire quite a few folks to delve into Clark's solo material, where they'll be richly rewarded.
JULIE LEDFORD (9)
 
 
 

Full Circle is available at Notlame.com