Jimmy Webb weaves miracles of emotion out of melodies. It’s doubtful any American pop composer’s inspired more throat lumps per song than the author of “Wichita Lineman” and “By the Time I Get to Phoenix,” perhaps his greatest compositions. During his ’60s and ’70s prime, Webb had his songs covered by legions of legends and stars, including Frank Sinatra, Elvis Presley, Isaac Hayes, Glen Campbell, Dennis Brown, and Nick Cave. Despite the ubiquity of these hits, they endure in the memory without annoyance. All that being said, this masterly melody maker is not usually the best person to execute his creations, as his voice lacks the range and soul power to convey their widescreen magnificence. Still, Webb can play a mean piano, and those indelible, heart-shattering ballads should be experienced in the flesh at least once in a lifetime. by Dave Segal