Various Artists

There just aren’t that many artists out there who actually need a tribute album, but underrated country singer, songwriter and all-American goofball Kris Kristofferson is an exception. The former Rhodes Scholar writes a mean song—more than one, as the 17 fine tracks here easily attest. The title references Kristofferson’s most famous song, “Me and Bobby McGee,” for which someone else is famous. It’s one of a few old favorites here. From Zmrzlina and Milk Chopper’s chopped up “Bobby McGee” to Howe Gelb’s updating of “The Pilgrim (Chapter 33)” or Virgil Shaw’s full indulgence in “Just the Other Side of Nowhere,” this album shows a full range and a loose touch. Whether it’s giddy cacophony or tender balladry, the diverse roster of pop and country artists plays it free and easy, just the way Kristofferson has always done.