Better Than Jail, a benefit album to raise support for improving our criminal justice system, is set to be released on October 4. The record features music by Jason Isbell, Amanda Shires, Steve Earle, the War and Treaty, Lukas Nelson, Hayes Carll and Allison Moorer, Bonnie Raitt, Margo Price, Old Crow Medicine Show, Taj Mahal, and more. A majority of the compilation features covers of classic prison-themed songs, including the album’s lead single, Earle’s cover of the Crickets‘ 1960 track, “I Fought the Law.” Better Than Jail also features an original tune by Isbell and Shires called “Color of a Cloudy Day,” which was originally written for the 2015 documentary film, The Fear of 13, and will be widely available for the first time on the benefit album.
Proceeds from the sales of Better Than Jail go towards Equal Justice USA and Free Hearts. “These iconic artists breathe new life into storied songs, empowering the organizations who address this issue head on,” says Brian Hunt, Better Than Jail producer and President of Believe Entertainment Group. “We must do more to improve our criminal justice system, and this album harnesses the transformative power of music to rally the call.” (Music Row)