David Olney’s legacy as a songwriter’s songwriter is celebrated with Can’t Steal My Fire: The Songs of David Olney, a 17-track tribute album that brings together an impressive lineup of artists to honor his timeless storytelling. Released by New West Records, this collection ensures Olney’s masterful songwriting will find its way to a new generation of listeners.
Though Olney never achieved mainstream fame, he was revered by his peers, with legends like Townes Van Zandt and Guy Clark counting him among the greatest. Van Zandt once likened him to the likes of Mozart and Dylan, praising Olney’s unparalleled ability to weave vivid narratives and create memorable characters. That craftsmanship is front and center in this album.
Opening with Lucinda Williams’ electrifying swampy rendition of “Deeper Well” – previously immortalized on Emmylou Harris’s Wrecking Ball – the album sets a powerful tone. Williams leans into the song’s raw intensity, capturing its haunting depth. Steve Earle, a longtime admirer of Olney, offers a stirring take on “Sister Angelina,” a song he describes as a touchstone for his own artistic roots.
Other standout moments include Buddy Miller’s chilling interpretation of “Jerusalem Tomorrow,” which tackles its heavy themes with reverence and precision. The McCrary Sisters bring soul and spirit to “Voices on the Water,” while Afton Wolfe delivers a visceral, unforgettable performance of “Titanic,” portraying the iceberg’s perspective with striking emotion.
The album also features rare treasures, including a 1977 live recording of Townes Van Zandt performing “Illegal Cargo” and Olney’s own recitation of “Sonnet #40,” adding a deeply personal touch. Dave Alvin teams up with the Rick Holmstrom Trio for the resilient anthem “Steal My Thunder,” offering a blend of grit and cool reminiscent of Tom Petty’s collaborations.
Whether it’s Mary Gauthier’s heart-wrenching version of “1917” or Jimmie Dale Gilmore’s tender “If It Wasn’t for the Wind,” every track pays homage to Olney’s unparalleled gift for capturing the human experience. The album concludes with Van Zandt’s haunting “Illegal Cargo,” a spectral goodbye to Olney’s extraordinary artistry.
Can’t Steal My Fire is more than a tribute; it’s a testament to the enduring power of Olney’s work. His songs, filled with literary wit and emotional depth, resonate as strongly today as they ever have, carried forward by the voices of those he inspired. This release ensures that his legacy remains vibrant and alive, a gift to both devoted fans and newcomers alike. – Jason Felton