Willie Nelson / Kris Kristofferson / Sir Douglas Quintet

Willie Nelson

Live From Austin TX (New West)

Kris Kristofferson

Live From Austin TX (New West)

Sir Douglas Quintet

Live From Austin TX (New West)

A couple of years ago, when New West began raiding the vaults of Austin City Limits, it was the anticipation of vintage shows such as these from three Texas legends that was truly exciting. Willie Nelson has appeared on the show more than any other artist, and this recording with the Family, recorded in 1990 at the peak of their considerable powers, is a fan favorite, and it's easy to see why. Starting with "Whiskey River" and ending with a couple of duets with a very young Shelby Lynne, it's a nearly perfect collection of signature tunes (you know which ones) that rocks, swings, and twangs in a way Nelson should copyright. The other pair of releases are from even further back, recorded in 1981, but the 25 years in between hasn't lessened their potency in the least. Sir Doug Sahm is joined by Augie Meyers, Speedy Sparks, a teenaged Shawn Sahm, and Alvin Crow for a remarkable set of Tex-Mex rock & roll. Sahm's best loved tunes are joined by some rip-roaring covers of "96 Tears," "Who'll Be the Next in Line," and "You're Gonna Miss Me." Even then, with a running time just under one hour, it seems like a fleeting glimpse. The song lineup on Kris Kristofferon's disc is nearly overshadowed by his backing band, which includes Billy Swan, Donnie Fritts, Glen Clark, and a distinctively fresh-faced Stephen Bruton. Delivered is a tempestuous set of classics that lean closer to rock than country and include a blistering take of "Me And Bobby McGee," a startlingly humid rendition of "For the Good Times," and a holy yet rollicking "Why Me." All three sets have been simultaneously released on CD for those who want some truly glorious live recordings without the accompanying video, although the sight of Doug Sahm doing his shimmy might be a little difficult to pass up.