I discovered this album from two directions. The 1995 Richard Linklater film Before Sunrise featured the song "Living Life" during its closing credits. For someone who truly connects with the romance of that film, the lyrics and mood created by that song offer a few moments of catharsis after the intense uncertainty at the film's end. I bought the song on iTunes and lived with it from time to time for a number of years. Then, in reading a profile of Daniel Johnston, a reference was made to artists who had covered his work. Kathy McCarty's interpretation Dead Dog's Eyeball: Songs of Daniel Johnston was praised. I was already interested in eventually finding some Daniel Johnston material. Maybe it would be interesting to explore an "interpretation" first? I had to hear it. It has been worth it. From this album, one might say that Daniel Johnston songs are interesting, to say the least. I would go so far as to say many seem a little "off" on first listen. Johnston does that himself sometimes by use of odd lyrics ("walking the cow") or even drawing the word "monkey" into his songs. But, that's an initial impression. On further listens, this collection of songs varies from truly touching and emotional pieces ("Hey Joe", "Golly Gee, or "Going Down", one of my personal favorites) to near "rockers" ("Wild West Virginia") that compliment the unique vision of their writer. And, I would feel remiss to neglect mentioning the depression or sadness that is pervasive throughout. Though, interestingly, that's not the overriding sensation with which I leave this album. Maybe I'm immune? "Hate Song" is a little too close to perfect as that note you wish you wrote... that one time. Kathy McCarty has created an excellent album. I keep wondering if this is a sort of greatest hits of Johnston's music or more simply a collection of her favorites. One way or the other, it doesn't matter. The instrumentation and vocals seem just right and the singer has captured the sentiments and meanings as her own. Without the reference to Johnston in the title, I would have thought McCarty a bit cooky and very impressive. Even knowing the words aren't her own, I still have the same sense. Probably should check out some Glass Eye... ...and original Daniel Johnston material. Dead Dog's Eyeball is a great find and a great album.