AMG Review of Anthology

Stephen Thomas Erlewine
All Music Guide

Spanning two discs, 20 years, and 40 songs, Hip-O's Anthology is a definitive overview of Don Williams' hit-making peak, containing the cream of his chart-topping country smashes. It's neatly divided, with the first disc devoted to his '70s work, the second to his '80s, and if the first is a bit stronger, it's only because it's more interesting to hear an artist hit his stride than settling into a signature sound. Still, there are great moments throughout both discs, all offering definitive proof that Williams' laid-back, warm country-pop was as good as mainstream country-pop got -- it was lush and accessible, but with real country roots, unlike many of his peers.