Various artist compilations are, without a doubt, a dime-a-dozen constant in the world of rock ‘n’ roll. Some have had a simple theme, like “Top Party Tunes” or “Hot Funk Hits.” Some are compilations of an era, like “Freedom Rock” or “Dance Hits of the ‘80s.” Others take on the task of a tribute, like the Gram Parsons’ tribute “Return of the Grievous Angel” or “Songs of Jimmy Rodgers: A Tribute.” Some are really great, some not.

One that has been more than 40 years in the making has been released this year by 429 Records, one whose concept had to wait until it could be made. “A Song For My Father” is a remarkable compilation of the talented children of some very legendary artists paying tribute to their fathers’ work. The album opens with a powerful new arrangement of Santana’s “Evil Ways” performed by Salvador Santana that sets the tone admirably. Many of the artists are recognizable in the mainstream, like Matthew and Gunnar Nelson (Rick Nelson), Chynna Phillips (John Phillips), Carnie and Wendy Wilson (Brian Wilson), Louise Goffin (Gerry Goffin and Carole King), Ben Taylor (James Taylor), Devon Allman (Gregg Allman), A.J. Croce (Jim Croce), Adam Cohen (Leonard Cohen), and Ky-Mani Marley (Bob Marley), others well-known on their own musical turf, such as Jen Chapin (Harry Chapin), Ivan Neville (Aaron Neville), Spencer Gibb (Robin Gibb), and Sarah Lee Guthrie (Arlo Guthrie), and all have turned in exciting performances of unique and, in many cases, stirring arrangements of well-chosen songs from their parents’ catalogs.

My favorites include Devon Allman’s take on “Midnight Rider,” Jen Chapin’s heartfelt arrangement of “Cat’s In The Cradle,” and Ivan Neville’s heavily funkified version of “Yellow Moon.” Don’t wait for next year’s Father’s Day to get this album for your Dad, he’ll appreciate it anytime and so will you.