I am a big fan of Americana. That tends to include the type of county that my parents listened to as well. It doesn't seem to draw the same attention that today's 'Bro Country' garners. That is a shame. But I believe that all of that is about to change.
I have been a fan of Jason Isbell since Drive-By Truckers. His solo work really grabbed me with his last release Southeastern. 'Cover Me Up' was something special. I was a fan of the album but I did not feel that the album as a whole was as strong as 'Cover Me Up'.
It appears that everything prior to this new release was a warm-up.
A refreshing change from today's country music littered with beer cans and frat party's, Jason Isbell treats us to some substance. Not just musically but lyrically. Tales of life, love, redemption, and self worth.
Perhaps this is listed as 'Alternative Country' because it is unlike anything in the country industry at the moment (Excluding Sturgill Simpson). Let the party boys pass out from partying while other write their songs and then treat yourself to this.
I was drawn in immediately by the melody of 'If It Takes A Lifetime' and I hoped that it would continue. I knew it would with '24 Frames' but hopefully after that. And it did. Track after track of sweet, meaningful, Americana. It became hard to pick a favorite from the Ryan Adams-esque 'The Life You Choose' to the Pat Green reminiscent 'Something More Than Free'.
This album is a pure gift. Meant for sunny summer days and nights of drinking. It is meant for thinking and feeling. I am planning on spending a lot of time with this album. It makes me miss what country music meant to me. It makes me thankful for what Jason Isbell is right now. Let's hope that this is just the beginning.
See you when the needle drops!
Fran
Haven't listened because it's like holding off opening a present just to have that excited mystery feeling a bit longer. Will listen tonight!
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