Since 1995, No Depression magazine has been the bible of "alternative-country music." Until recently, their subhead proclaimed that they were "The Bimonthly Journal of Alt-Country," followed by varying ironic references to the fact that they were unsure as to the actual definition of alt-country. Well if a picture is worth a thousand words, the ND folks figured a recording is too, and to that end they have issued a compilation that helps define the genre's boundaries while demonstrating its breadth. It begins with Johnny Cash singing "The Time of the Preacher" backed by members of Soundgarden, Nirvana, and Alice in Chains, his voice and presence comfortably matching the wall of distorted guitars. Although a few tracks expose that common alt-country flaw--good intentions with mediocre execution--most reveal its riches. Performances by the likes of Buddy Miller, Emmylou Harris, Kelly Willis, Robbie Fulks, and Kasey Chambers represent the marriage of art and craft that truly defines the best of alt-country--whatever that is. --Michael Ross