Everybody's Brother

iTunes Review

Everybody’s Brother is one hard-hitting album. Shaver pulls no punches as he tackles the big subjects: Love, Death and God. The legendary songwriter has lived a wild life, full of tragedy, hell raisin’ and good times, and it’s reflected in this set of mostly spiritually-themed songs. His voice is not dissimilar from Johnny Cash’s — the Man in Black admired his work — but Shaver is definitely his own man. A number of cuts stand out here, including a rollicking gospel-flavored number with a hook that proclaims, “If you don’t love Jesus, go to hell.” Everybody’s Brother is packed with guests, including John Anderson, Kris Kristofferson, and Marty Stuart. Shaver and Tanya Tucker turn in a ragged-but-right duet on “Played the Game Too Long,” a sassy slice of country cabaret. The hypnotic title track features the Native American musician Bill Miller on flute, percussion and backup vocals, and a chorus that includes Lakota lyrics. Everybody’s Brother closes with “You Just Can’t Beat Jesus Christ,” a pumped-up cut that was recorded in the 1970s. The back and forth between Shaver and guest Johnny Cash is thrilling. Shaver’s late son, Eddy, adds some mean electric guitar, and Rougie Ray absolutely burns on harmonica. It’s a great closer for a great album.