The diverse lineup on this Don Covay tribute is testament to the power and influence of the soulman's songwriting. From R&B legends Jimmy Witherspoon and Ben E. King to punk icon Iggy Pop, soul/bluesman Robert Cray and the Stones' Ron Wood, it's an eclectic bunch of acts with Covay's stellar songwriting as the glue holding them together. The hits are present with Wood's swampy "Chain of Fools," Pop's unhinged, near metalish "Sookie Sookie" and "Mercy Mercy" shared by the unlikely combination of Todd Rundgren, Gary "U.S." Bonds, and Chuck Jackson. But it's the more obscure gems from Covay's catalog, some such as the title track and "Victims" performed here for the first time, that provide a sense of the songwriter's extensive scope. Keyboardist Paul Shaffer, bassist Will Lee, and drummer Anton Fig, all from David Letterman's band, don't seem likely musicians to anchor the backing band, but they acquit themselves remarkably well by creating a common foundation that unites the various singers' dissimilar styles. Covay's story songs are given terrific, even moving readings by Peter Wolf ("I Stole Some Love") and Bobby Womack ("I Was Checking Out"). Oldies such as "Letter Full of Tears" -- first made famous by Gladys Knight & the Pips and sung here by original Chantels singer Arlene Smith with Huey Lewis & the News' saxist Johnny Colla -- is another surprisingly powerful performance that makes this disc such a nonstop, hour-plus joy. Living Colour vocalist Corey Glover tears into "Three Time Loser" with all the intensity of Wilson Pickett's original, and even poet/singer Jim Carroll -- a quirky addition by any measure -- delivers a convincing "Long Tall Shorty." Billy Squier, another unusual guest, cranks out "See Saw" with thumping enthusiasm, and veteran Witherspoon with Ruthie Foster singing duet vocals propels the soul/funk of "Thunder," another recent Covay tune. You're right to be wary of tribute albums since so many are lame excuses stitched together to sell product to fans of the tributee. But this is the exception. It consistently connects due to stirring and inspired performances and also spotlights the talents of one of soul's finest yet least heralded songwriters. ~ Hal Horowitz, All Music Guide