Dylan and Amnestry International turn 50, but we get the party tunes.

In 1962, Amnesty International began their human rights activism on behalf of a few political prisoners.  In March of that same year, a young singer songwriter named Robert Zimmerman released a debut album named for his new stage moniker, “Bob Dylan.” Fifty years later, the two iconic forces are joined together in a remarkable project of musical intensity that salutes the impact and influence of both Amnesty and Bob Dylan. This week, Amnesty released “Chimes of Freedom: The Songs of Bob Dylan Honoring 50 Years of Amnesty International.”

It’s a massive tribute to the artist whose influence is without parallel as well as a way for numerous artist to give back to the organization many of them, including Bono and Bob Geldof, credit with inspiring them to become politically active. The release itself is a 4-CD, 76-song collection featuring contributions from over 80 artists. The plethora of acts is as varied as a dysfunctional family reunion, but the combination tends to work, which is a tribute to the strength of the songs themselves.  Who else could inspire interpretations of songs recorded for free by diverse artist like Miley Cyrus, Cage The Elephant, Adele, Jeff Beck and Tom Morello?

While the diversity of the musicians and genres --rock, rap, pop, folk, country, jazz and blues -- attests to Amnesty's depth of support in the music community as well as the breadth of Dylan's impact on culture, the question remains is it any good?

First, the good news. It’s a great value.  In fact, the digital download is only $19.99 and gives you three extra songs for a total of 76.  (The CDs are only $24.99). Then there is the added incentive of giving your money to a good cause. So at less than a quarter a song, it’s a must for any Dylan fan, however, what is the casual fan to make of it?

There are, as you might expect, transformative moments. The set leads off with “One Too Many Mornings,” which features vintage Johnny Cash meshed with a fresh contribution from The Avett Brothers.

The result is bold testament to the generational connections between artists, a bond Dylan’s music forged. Another highlight is Raphael Saadiq ’s funked up take on “Leopard-Skin Pill-Box Hat.” The song from the emerging artist, who performed locally at Vail Soul Music Fest, is a great interpretation. And honestly, Miley Cyrus doesn’t embarrass herself. In fact, it almost sounds like “You're Gonna Make Me Lonesome When You Go” could easily have appeared on one of her albums.

The collection delivers straight redoes like Patti Smith’s disappointing contribution and bold compositions like Diana Krall ’s “Simple Twist of Fate.” With so much to choose from coupled with great compositions, regardless of their presentation, this tribute is well worth a purchase.