CD Reviews on projects by Americana Artists
Nick Justice’s seventh album, “Rain Dancing,” features collaborations with familiar musicians and introduces new textures through instruments like fiddle and banjo. Addressing themes of patience, performance, and mortality, the album blends Southern California vibes with folk influences. With introspective lyrics, it showcases Justice’s talent and may mark his breakthrough.
Kim Moberg’s fourth album, “All That Really Matters,” showcases her soothing folk music and explores themes of love, betrayal, social justice, and healing. Featuring collaborations with other artists and rich instrumentation by Grammy-nominated producer Jon Evans, the album is both melodious and impactful, emphasizing poignant lyrics and human experiences.
The Lowest Pair, an American folk band, releases their seventh album, Always As Young As We’ll Ever Be, under Team Love Records. This ten-song collection explores life’s uncertainties, emphasizing themes of love, resilience, and emotional confusion. The duo, Kendl Winter and Palmer T. Lee, reflects on life’s imperfections in their heartfelt lyrics.
Tom Paxton and John McCutcheon reunite for their album “Together Again,” expanding on their previous collaboration. Featuring fourteen tracks, the album mixes humor, nostalgia, and socially conscious themes, including gun violence. While the tone is lighter than their last effort, the duo delivers heartfelt storytelling and reflects on aging and friendship.
Diane Coll’s fifth album, Strangely in Tune, marks a sonic evolution in her intimate folk style, incorporating diverse musical influences. Inspired by Kintsugi, the album explores themes of resilience amidst life’s dualities. It features new musicians and highlights the interplay of grief and joy, culminating in a complex yet enriching listening experience.
Ed Harris is a renowned American musician dedicated to Celtic music for over 30 years. His latest album, “Echoes Through The Elderwoods,” features 14 captivating songs blending instrumental and vocal components. Harris’s mastery of multiple instruments enhances his artistry. Importantly, he donates all album proceeds to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.
Tommy Talton’s album “Seven Levels” reflects his artistic journey, emotional depth, and the context of a fractured America. Collaborating with friends, he produced a rich sound, blending southern rock and blues. Despite health struggles, he completed this project before his passing on December 28, 2023, leaving behind a poignant legacy.
Bahamas, the musical project of Afie Jurvanen, releases his seventh album, My Second Best Last Album, recorded casually in Nova Scotia. The collection showcases his signature blend of warmth and introspection, touching on themes of identity, connection, and personal renewal. Each track reflects his evolution as a songwriter, making it his most personal record yet.
Avi Jacob, born into a Jewish family in Boston, is an emerging folk artist known for his emotional depth and lyrical honesty. His latest album, “Hawk in the Nest,” fuses folk, Americana, and R&B, showcasing his growth as a songwriter. With rich instrumentation and personal themes, it highlights his compelling artistry.
Mark Miller’s album This Bridge showcases his talent as an Americana artist, featuring vivid narratives and poignant lyrics. Collaborating with renowned musicians, Miller explores themes of memory, heartbreak, and resilience. Notable tracks highlight personal experiences and evoke strong emotional imagery, affirming Miller’s status in contemporary music. This is a standout release of the year.
Joselyn Wilkinson and Don Barrozo return with “Lost & Found Highway,” their third album, reflecting their journey through memories, protests, and personal challenges. Collaborating with notable musicians, they combine powerful vocals and skilled guitar work while addressing themes of love, roots, and social issues, culminating in a message of resilience and affirmation.
Bill Scorzari’s double album, “Sidereal Days (Day 1),” showcases his literate songwriting and unique sound. Featuring personal and emotional tracks, it blends various musical elements with deeply reflective lyrics. Collaborating with top musicians, Scorzari’s distinctive voice enhances each piece, inviting listeners to engage fully with the music over multiple listens.
Kara Grainger, an Australian singer-songwriter, blends blues and Americana in her latest album, “That’s How I Got to Memphis.” Featuring six originals and three covers, the album showcases her vocal talent and guitar skills, supported by an accomplished ensemble. Grainger’s music reflects her influences and personal journey, marking a significant milestone in her career.
Mike Miz, a singer-songwriter and guitarist, moved from Northeast Pennsylvania to Nashville, collaborating with notable musicians on his album “Sometimes by Surprise.” This effort features a live band recording and showcases Miz’s songwriting skills across various themes like youth, love, and environmental concerns. The album includes seven standout tracks and a cover of Jim Croce’s “I Got a Name.”
The Wild Iris Brass Band merges New Orleans tradition with diverse influences including Afrobeats, Brazilian carnival, jazz, and Tennessee roots. Led by Jeff Coffin and Ray Mason, their music is energetic and party-like, featuring engaging vocals and special guests like Bela Fleck. This vibrant collaboration celebrates brass band culture joyfully.
Wesley Hanna’s album “Magnolia,” self-released, reflects his Texas roots with authentic country music. Featuring 15 collaborators, it includes emotive tracks about youth and family. Highlights include “Gulf Prairie Blues,” “Life in Three Quarter Time,” and a cover of “Magnolia.” Hanna shows promise, echoing influences from renowned Texas songwriters.
Robert LaRoche, a singer-songwriter and guitarist from Holyoke, Ma, began his career at fifteen. He formed the band ‘The Sighs’ in 1982, achieving success with their debut CD in 1992. LaRoche’s solo work includes “Patient Man” and “Forevermore.” His upcoming album, “Sacred Vow,” releases in September 2025.
Greta Gaines is an accomplished American singer-songwriter and former snowboard champion. “Bird Before Light” is her latest album, featuring themes of midlife transitions and emotional growth. Notable collaborations include musicians like Tim O’Brien. Greta’s career spans music, sports, and cannabis legalization, showcasing her diverse talents and advocacy efforts.
Rebecca Pidgeon, born in 1965, is a talented singer, songwriter, and actress with dual American-British citizenship. Her latest album, “Unillusion,” produced by Fernando Perdomo, offers a minimalistic blend of voice and acoustic guitar. The collection showcases her storytelling prowess and includes various reflective tracks that highlight her artistic evolution.
Stuart Blance is a Scottish singer-songwriter and photographer known for his acoustic music and uplifting lyrics. His new EP, “Fringe Benefits,” features songs like “Shine” and “As Scottish as Haggis,” celebrating themes of life, love, and self-belief. Blance’s work combines folk, Americana, pop, and rock influences, offering optimism and joy.
Remi Goode, a trained classical guitarist from Nashville, draws inspiration from artists like Suzanne Vega. Her debut album, “Things I’ve Said Before,” showcases a blend of folk and pop, featuring introspective lyrics and diverse instrumentation. The record hints at a promising future for Goode in the music industry.
Woody Guthrie, born July 14, 1912, in Oklahoma, revolutionized American folk music with over 3,000 songs, including “This Land Is Your Land.” His legacy, maintained by family members, remains influential in music and social justice. Recorded in 1950, his work highlights the enduring spirit of resilience and introspection among marginalized communities.
James McMurtry’s album, The Black Dog and the Wandering Boy, showcases his lyrical prowess with ten exceptional tracks that blend personal stories with societal critiques. Collaborating with talented musicians, he creates a spontaneous sound. The album’s covers and original songs poignantly explore themes of disillusionment and identity, marking a significant contribution to Americana music.
Susan Anders’s album “Now I’m a Kite” reflects her nomadic experiences, exploring themes of loss, resilience, and new beginnings. Recorded mostly in Santa Fe, the folk-pop sound accompanies deeply emotional lyrics addressing personal struggles, including her father’s passing and her partner’s health issues. Anders’s insightful songwriting showcases vulnerability and perseverance.
Webb Wilder, known for his unique blend of musical genres, releases his first album in five years, “Hillbilly Speedball.” Featuring a mix of original songs and covers, the album showcases his signature rock ‘n’ roll style and collaborations with notable friends. Wilder’s self-deprecating lyrics highlight his journey in music.
Ron Sowell’s album “Dance Till the Music Stops” showcases his musical journey from early guitar lessons to touring worldwide. With themes of love, presence, and the passage of time, his diverse sound spans genres like folk, jazz, and R&B. The album emphasizes living fully and appreciating each moment.
Tony Kamel, former frontman of “Wood & Wire,” releases “We’re All Gonna Live,” his third studio album on Blue Corn Music. The album showcases his storytelling, instrumental prowess, and unique clawhammer banjo style. With standout tracks addressing life and loss, it reflects Kamel’s exceptional bluegrass artistry and emotional depth.
Vicki Peterson, a founding member of The Bangles, and John Cowsill, from The Cowsills, have released an album titled “Long After The Fire.” Their collaboration features heartfelt vocal duets with a twangy sound reminiscent of The Everly Brothers and Roy Orbison, highlighting their musical chemistry and rich harmonies across diverse themes.
The Wildwoods, a Nebraska folk-American trio, released their fourth album, Dear Meadowlark. Their acoustic sound blends genuine folk and indie influences, showcasing warm harmonies. The band, formed in middle school, reflects on youth and home with engaging performances and introspective songs. Their talent hints at a bright future ahead.
Geoff Arsenault’s third solo album, Hired Hand, showcases his roots in blues and New Orleans music, blending storytelling with social themes. Collaborating with notable musicians, the album features a mix of gritty vocals, infectious grooves, and diverse instrumentation. It offers a haunting and engaging journey through Arsenault’s musical landscape.
Allison August’s album “August Moon” showcases her musical journey influenced by legends like the Beatles and Etta James. Produced by Grammy winner Tony Braunagel, the album features diverse themes from love and city life to personal loss, culminating in a heartfelt tribute to late collaborators. August’s talent shines throughout the project.
Lance Cowan, a seasoned publicist, embarked on a surprising career as a singer-songwriter. His album “Against the Grain” features ten original tracks, showcasing a blend of acoustic influences, including Neil Young. With a diverse supporting cast, the album reflects his journey and struggles, capturing themes of love, loss, and social reflection.
Richie Lawrence’s album “Moving at the Speed of Trees” showcases his California Americana roots through collaborations with notable musicians. The album features personal narratives, including themes of immigration, hope, and environmental concerns. Its variety of musical styles and deep instrumental textures reflect Lawrence’s diverse experiences and pay homage to his late songwriting partner, Paul Lacques.
David Ramirez’s album “All the Not So Gentle Reminders” features twelve genre-blending songs created during a writing retreat in Alabama. This introspective work showcases dreamy soundscapes and rich arrangements, mixing elements of pop, jazz, and more. The album’s emotional depth and hypnotic quality create a unique auditory experience.
Nighthawk’s “Street Dog” is Parker Hawkins’ eclectic second solo album, blending diverse genres with notable collaborators. Produced with Dave Coleman, it features rich instrumentation and themes ranging from relationships to social judgment. The album’s unique sound celebrates Hawkins’ journey, while honoring his late dog Jaco, offering listeners a varied musical experience.
Helen Cronin’s third album, “Maybe New Mexico,” showcases her evolution as a singer-songwriter with softer, acoustic sounds. Collaborating with Mitch Dane and various musicians, she explores personal themes like relationships, mortality, and the environment. Highlights include the poignant “Rifleman” and reflective tracks like “Not the Year.” Cronin’s vivid lyrics reaffirm her songwriting prowess.
Micki Free, a Grammy-winning artist and Native American Hall of Fame inductee, releases a five-song EP titled “Dreamcatcher.” The record showcases his diverse talents, including guitar, vocals, and flute, featuring notable musicians like Benny Rietveld and Cindy Blackman Santana. Free’s work promotes healing and advocacy for the Native American community.
Bob Bralove and Patti Weiss’s album, Acoustic Conversations, features mostly composed improvisational jazz recorded live without overdubs. Their bond, formed through past collaborations and pandemic reconnecting, shines in pieces that blend classical and jazz elements. The album showcases their musical dialogue, resulting in expressive tracks with a cinematic quality.
Sunny War’s new album, “Armageddon in a Summer Dress,” follows her breakthrough “Anarchist Gospel” and features several notable guests. Inspired by eerie experiences in her father’s old house, the album examines themes of memory and loss, blending punk and Americana influences. While some production choices overshadow her vocals, War’s talent shines through.
Candi Staton, nearing her 85th birthday, releases “Back To My Roots,” featuring a mix of covers and originals. The album celebrates her musical heritage and includes collaborations with various artists. Staton delivers heartfelt performances, reflecting on civil rights and personal experiences, while maintaining her signature gospel sound.
Captain’s Audio Project, led by James Cook, is a debut album showcasing his songwriting and multi-instrumental talents. Influenced by his experiences and a variety of musical genres, the album features emotive lyrics and a diverse sound, including contributions from a skilled horn section. It’s a captivating introduction to his artistic journey.
Sean McConnell’s 15th album, “Skin,” showcases his skills as a songwriter and collaborator. Co-produced with a talented team, the album explores deep themes such as sobriety, faith, and personal growth. Each track offers listeners open-ended reflections, highlighting the expansive journey of self-discovery beneath the skin.
Massy Ferguson’s seventh album, “You Can’t Tell Me I’m Not What I Used to Be,” showcases a departure from their traditional sound, blending lush instrumentation with layers and textures. Produced by Damien Jurado, the album features both familiar heartland rock and riskier psychedelic elements, resulting in an uneven but adventurous collection of songs.
Jennifer Porter, an acclaimed musician and actress, showcases her versatility in “Sun Come and Shine Redux.” Featuring enhanced tracks and a blend of styles from jazz to blues, the album highlights Porter’s exceptional vocals and songwriting. With collaborations from talented musicians, the project illustrates her poetic reflections and celebrates her roots in music.
Lucero’s latest release, “Unplugged: Liberty & Lament,” features acoustic renditions of 20 songs by frontman Ben Nichols and pianist Rick Steff. The double LP showcases a mix of popular and obscure tracks, highlighting Steff’s captivating piano work alongside Nichols’ emotive vocals. While the uniformity may feel repetitive, several standout pieces capture the band’s essence.
John Mailander’s album “Forecast: Let the World In” showcases a genreless blend of mostly instrumental, improvised music featuring violin, keys, and various instruments. The collection, designed as a continuous suite, offers exploration through cinematic compositions. Highlights include “Heartland” and a cover of Nick Drake’s “Road,” blending earthiness with otherworldly sounds.
John Calvin’s album “Greener Fields & Fairer Seas” reflects his journey of growth and resilience following personal losses and societal injustices. It features poetic lyrics emphasizing kindness amid adversity, blending various musical influences. Produced during the pandemic, the album delivers heartfelt emotions, addressing themes of mortality, parenthood, and universal experiences with death.
Diane Coll’s album “Up from the Mud” explores themes of healing from relational trauma, transitioning from dark introspection to brighter tones. The album features ethereal soundscapes and resonates with her experience as a mental health therapist. Closing with the hopeful “All Is Well,” it artistically embodies the interplay of pain and joy.
Dave Murphy’s seventh album, “A Heart So Rare,” explores themes of human fallibility through the lens of divorce, incorporating elements of surrender and forgiveness. A cancer survivor and respected performer, Murphy’s heartfelt songwriting and collaboration with notable musicians create a poignant reflection on life and hope for redemption.
Tom Clarke’s list of Ten Favorite Roots and Blues Albums of 2024 highlights a spectrum of contemporary and traditional influences within the genre. Featuring both legendary and emerging artists, the selections showcase powerful lyrics, soulful instrumentation, and the ongoing significance of roots and blues music through innovative sounds and heartfelt performances.