Kristofferson once said that hanging around Willie was like hanging out with a guru. Well, if the mantle must be passed to a worthy successor, the only logical choice is Ray Wylie Hubbard, who's songs of spiritual descent and final redemption, seasoned with a wry sense of humor, have kept me amazed and entertained for years now. It seems a shame that one must nearly destroy one's life in order to gain a sharp sense of perspective and creativity which usually produce that irony so prevalent in the work of great songwriters. Ray seems to have wallowed in it, revelled in it, fought with it, overcame it, and come out understanding it, and ultimately teaching us about it. Dangerous Spirits, Loco Gringo's Lament, and Crusades of the Restless Knights are Holy Writ in my book, written by the wise hand of a master.

Ray Wylie Hubbard is one of the finest musicians that I have ever heard. Most people know him by his most famous song Redneck Mother. This song is nothing like the music he now writes. His music is more intelligent, mature, and contemplative. His live shows are not drunkfests but an entertainging show of humouous stories and good music. His album Crusade of the Restless Knights is a journey through life that could be Mr. Hubbard's. It tells of a boy' introduction to religion and gives insight to a broken home and how a person could fall on the wayside of life and return to the path of redemption. If you are interested in music that makes you laugh with intelligent humor and makes you feel good about life Crusade of the Restless Knights is a must buy along with Ray Wylie Hubbard' other albums.