Townes Van Zandt recorded this album live in the studio without an audience, in a single take per song, aiming to capture the raw essence of his music. It was released posthumously in 1999, two years after his death.
The album includes versions of some of his best-known songs, such as 'Pancho and Lefty' and 'If I Needed You', along with lesser-recorded tracks. The minimalist production reflects his solo performance style.
A Far Cry from Dead was well received by critics as an honest testament to his talent as a songwriter and performer. The cover features a photograph of Van Zandt taken by his friend and photographer Jim Herrington.