Various Artists - Putumayo Presents: Americana
Putumayo World Music (Released July 31, 2007)  
Putumayo World Music has long provided music fans with insightful and carefully selected compilations focusing on under-appreciated musical genres. Early collections highlighted a variety of world music styles. More recently, the folks at Putumayo have turned their attention to American roots music with CD’s dedicated to Mississippi blues, American folk music, contemporary singer-songwriters and American blues. Now they have turned their attention specifically to the Americana genre itself. For a category so broad, it is difficult to identify a handful of songs which epitomize the entire genre. But the Putumayo collection does just that. The CD wisely focuses on traditional folk-oriented recordings from established Americana artists. Featured artists include Old Crow Medicine Show, Chip Taylor & Carrie Rodriguez, Tim O’Brien, RobinElla, Robert Earl Keen, The Little Willies and Alison Brown. It’s hard to go wrong with a line-up like that. Though other Americana compilations have been produced, this may the best overall collection of Americana music released to date. 

Dale Boyle - Small Town Van Gogh
Independent (Released 2007)  
Montreal may not seem like the natural home of country-inspired Americana, but the region is home to numerous aspiring roots music artists. One of the best to emerge from north of the border is Dale Boyle who has recently released his second CD entitled Small Town Van Gogh. The 10 songs featured on the CD are essentially solo acoustic performances based on country, folk and blues traditions. The result is a recording where the focus is on the songs themselves, not glossy studio techniques. The performances range from the acoustic country-folk of the opening track "Tom," to the bluesy Steve Earle-inspired "If I Come Back," to a twangy folk version of Bruce Springsteen’s "My Hometown," to a Celtic instrumental entitled "At the Kitchen Table." Despite its foundation in traditional Americana, Boyle’s music is heavily influenced by his rural hometown in the Gaspe region of Quebec. The album’s title track, for example, is a tribute to a little known Gaspe painter Tennyson Johnson who influenced Boyle’s development as a musician. When not performing, Boyle is a freelance writer and music researcher who is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in education at McGill University. 

Bill Kelly - Bread on the Waters
Independent (Released 2007)  
Bread on the Waters is the latest CD from Manhattan-based singer-songwriter Bill Kelly. Despite his East Coast roots, Kelly’s musical style is strongly reminiscent of the West Coast country-rock sound epitomized by the Eagles. Highlights include the opening track "Daddy Wouldn’t Know," "Knock Knock Joke," and the ballad "Steady As She Goes." Kelly even hints at contemporary country on songs like "Dream" and "What Do I Gotta Do." But the artist who bills himself as "Mr. Americana" keeps true to his moniker by incorporating a broad array of roots music influences to produce this fresh and inviting collection of contemporary Americana. 

Lawrence Blatt - Out of the Woodwork
LMB Music (Released 2006)  
Few instruments bridge the gap between classical music and folk music as easily as the acoustic guitar. The instrument has been employed by the greatest classical composers, the original delta blues men, folk music pioneers, country music icons, and rock stars. It is therefore not surprising that the boundaries of the instrument continue to be explored by contemporary musical artists. Lawrence Blatt is one such musician whose CD Out of the Woodwork mixes a passion for classical music with a heavy dose of respect for jazz and folk influences. The San Francisco-based artist delivers thirteen guitar instrumentals on both classical and steel-string acoustic guitars. Though classical influences provide the dominant inspiration for Blatt’s music, Out of the Woodwork provides wonderful mood music for those with an appreciation of the beauty and versatility of the acoustic guitar. 

Mark Olson - The Salvation Blues
Hacktone Records (Released June 12, 2007)  
The subtitle to Mark Olson's latest CD reads "A two-year journey through the heart of loss and redemption, in words and music." The founding member of The Jayhawks has assembled a very personal recording which details the aftermath of his divorce from Victoria Williams and his travels as an essentially homeless man around Europe. The Salvation Blues is Olson's best work since leaving the Jayhawks in 1994. Olson has surrounded himself with a stellar group of backing musicians including former bandmate Gary Louris and guitarist Tony Gilkyson.  In addition to Louris, backing vocals are provided by Cindy Wasserman whose work with Dead Rock West has been highlighted here at Americana Homeplace. Highlights include "Clifton Bridge" "Winter Song," and "Poor Michael's Boat" which is a previously unrecorded song from the days of the original Jayhawks. 

Lucky 57 - Seven Mile River
Looseground Records (Released December 2, 2006)  
Seven Mile River is the sophomore release from Boston quintet Lucky 57. The band has acquired a reputation as one of the premier roots-rock bands in New England after receiving the 2006 Boston Music Award for "Best Americana Act." The band's latest release features a dozen songs rooted in alt-country and modern twang-rock. Highlights from the CD include the rockin' opener "Left Town" and the title track (the lyrics of which took second place in the 2004 American Songwriter Magazine Lyric Contest).  Another highlight is a compelling cover of Lucinda Williams' "Pineola" which is a bit more rock-oriented than the original but maintains Williams' intensity.

I See Hawks in L.A. - California Country
Western Seeds Records (Released May 9, 2006)  
California Country is the third CD from California alt-country band I See Hawks in L.A. This is contemporary West Coast Americana from a passionately skilled group of singers and songwriters. The appearance of Chris Hillman as a guest contributor is not surprising because this is surely what Hillman's former bandmate Gram Parsons meant when he coined the phrase "Cosmic American Music." The five musicians who comprise the band (3 Californians, a Minnesotan and a North Carolinian) mix twang with an exuberant blend of country, bluegrass, rock and folk influences. And don't overlook the lyrics. I See Hawks in L.A. are one of the best story-telling bands in modern Americana music.      

Steve Carter - Back in Love Again
Coinhead (Released May 22, 2006)  
Back in Love Again is an enjoyable collection of Western swing, jazz and country from Texas singer-songwriter Steve Carter.  Carter freely mixes musical styles to create a constantly shifting musical landscape. "Burnin' Moonlight" opens the CD in a smoldering jazz-blues vein. "I Just Wanna Fall in Love Again" provides one of the CD's highlights with a catchy folk-inspired tune. "Since I Gave Up Cigarettes" is a previously unrecorded song written by Merle Haggard. Carter presents the song with a traditional New Orleans-style jazz twist. Just when you think you've figured out Carter's songwriting approach, he throws yet another curveball with a reggae take on "Just Because You're Mine" (with a fiddle solo thrown in for good measure). Straight-ahead country and folk dominate the later half of this eclectic Americana brew.  Good stuff for those that appreciate an adventurous approach to traditional American music. 

Dan Pokorni - Guitarscapes
Independent (Released 2006)  
Fans of instrumental guitar should take note of Dan Pokorni's debut CD entitled Guitarscapes. This collection of five instrumental tunes was recorded by the Chicago-area guitarist in 2004. After years of playing in bands, Pokorni wrote and recorded all of the music on the CD by himself.  “Shakir” received Honorable Mention recognition in the 2005 VH1 Song of the Year Contest.

Ryan Adams - Easy Tiger
Lost Highway (Released June 26, 2007)  
Easy Tiger is the latest release from singer-songwriter Ryan Adams. The ex-Whiskeytown singer is famous (or infamous) for his prolific output.  After releasing three separate albums in 2005 - including the double-CD Cold Roses - Adams has waited over 18 months to release his latest effort. (That's not including the dozens of demos and throw-away songs which Adams has placed on his official website.) Fortunately, Easy Tiger doesn't disappoint.  Tracks like "Goodnight Rose" and "Everybody Knows" are quintessential Adams. Though the release is dominated by mid-tempo ballads, there's a maturity at work here which minimizes the risks which often marred some of his prior recordings. While not at the level of Adams' most acclaimed post-Whiskeytown releases (i.e., Heartbreaker, Gold, Cold Roses), this is a confident recording from an artist who has occasionally seemed uncomfortable with his talent and skill as a songwriter and performer. 

The Hackensaw Boys - Look Out  
Nettwerk Records (Released June 19, 2007)  
Since the fall of 2000, the Hackensaw Boys have traveled the world in an effort to bring their high-energy take on American roots music to anyone and everyone willing to take a listen. All those years of touring and performing have infused the Hackensaw Boys with a vitality that seeps forth on its latest release entitled Look Out. This is the band’s sophomore release on Nettwerk Records. If you’re a fan of Old Crow Medicine Show or The Avett Brothers, be sure to check out the latest from the Hackensaw Boys. 

Wrinkle Neck Mules - Wicks Have Met
Lower 40 Records (Released May 22, 2007) 
In 2006, Richmond, Virginia's Wrinkle Neck Mules delivered one of the year's premier alt-country releases with Pull The Brake. The band has recently recorded their follow-up CD entitled The Wicks Have Met. Not surprisingly, Wicks maintains the band's penchant for achieving the perfect alt-country hat trick - country/bluegrass influences, appealing melodies, and rock and roll attitude.  While Wicks may not quite soar to the heights achieved on Pull the Brake, it's a more than worthy successor from one of Americana's top young bands.   

The Avett Brothers - Emotionalism  
Ramseur Records (Released May 15, 2007)  
Emotionalism is the latest release from the North Carolina trio known as The Avett Brothers. Featuring a complicated mixture of folk/bluegrass instrumentation, punk-rock attitude, and Beatle-esque songwriting, this is one of the premier Americana releases of 2007. Also nominated as Album of the Year by the Americana Music Association as part of its 6^th annual Americana Honors & Awards.  

Wilco - Sky Blue Sky
Nonesuch Records (Released May 15, 2007)  
On its latest studio effort entitled Sky Blue Sky, Wilco foregoes much of the eclectic instrumentation which has dominated the band's output in the wake of 2001's Yankee Hotel Foxtrot. While the latest release finds Jeff Tweedy in singer-songwriter mode once again, this is not exactly a return to the band's alt-country roots.  Sky Blue Sky is a collection of mellow tunes more reminiscent of the laid-back '70s that the edgy country-rock of the '90s.  

ALO - Roses & Clover
Brushfire Records (Released May 1, 2007)  
Roses & Clover is the new release from Santa Barbara, California's ALO (aka Animal Liberation Orchestra).  Having opened for artists such as Jack Johnson and the Dave Matthews Band, ALO may be on the verge of becoming headliners in their own right.  Recorded in a century old barn in Santa Barbara, Roses & Clover is a clever mix of roots rock, R&B, funk and reggae - with a flair for the occasional power-pop hook. Admittedly, the music of ALO occupies the fringes of Americana. Perhaps "Americana-influenced" would bring us closer to the truth. Regardless, modern rock radio could certainly benefit from a heavy dose of ALO's infectious approach to contemporary rock.       

Trilobite - Trilobite
Independent  
Review By John Davy
Is Trilobite the title of the record, or of the band, or both? Whatever, it is a fine wine, to be sipped and savoured so that all its many flavours might be revealed. Mark Ray Lewis is the mainman; already an acclaimed author, it seems unfair that he should have talent left over to produce such an inventive and intensely musical piece of work. His lyric writing is fantastic, so poetic and atmospheric, dancing from the small detail to the big picture in the space of a few words; thankfully, the beautifully produced "Songbook" that is included with the cd lets you into the secrets of the words because his singing style is more of a murmur than anything, as if he's talking to himself.  Click here for John Davy's full review.    

Ricky Skaggs & Bruce Hornsby - Ricky Skaggs & Bruce Hornsby
Sony Legacy (Released March 20, 2007)  
In the wake of the success of the O Brother, Where Art Thou soundtrack in 2002, an ensemble of highly regarded bluegrass performers assembled at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville to record a bluegrass special entitled "An All-Star Bluegrass Celebration." One of the evening's most unusual pairings was the performance of "Darlin’ Corey" by bluegrass icon Ricky Skaggs and pop-rock keyboardist Bruce Hornsby. The duo have finally decided to turn that one-off performance into an entire CD of folk-Americana songs. The result is surprisingly good. Though the piano is rarely associated with bluegrass or folk music, the combination of Hornsby’s keyboards and Skaggs’ mandolin fit together almost seamlessly. Hornsby chose to re-record his biggest commercial hit "Mandolin Rain" with a completely new arrangement and new lyrics to match the mood. Again, the result works brilliantly within the context of the CD. The only question mark on the release is the remake of Rick James’ "Super Freak." John Anderson contributes vocals on the CD’s only real novelty song. Taken for what it is, the remake is a fun and quirky ending to one of the better Americana releases this year.                   

Ellsworth - American Compost
Independent (Released 2006)  
American Compost is the latest release from New York singer-songwriter Ellsworth. Ellsworth has written and performed roots music since the 1970s as both a solo artist and with occasional partner Phil Hicks. American Compost is a rock-oriented release with occasional nods to the blues, country and folk influences which inform the material. If the current state of rock radio was not such a complete mess, this release would probably garner a lot of attention from radio programmers. As it is, you will probably have to discover this album on your own. But the discovery is well worth it.                     

Terry Winchell - Vice Versa
Wooodzilla Records (Released 2007)  
Vice Versa is an intriguing collection of songs from Long Island singer-songwriter Terry Winchell. At times poignant and at other time wistful, the CD features the impressive songwriting of Winchell, whose reliable vocals are tastefully punctuated with the mandolin of Mark McCarron and the cello of Suzanne Mueller. Think of Winchell as a bluesy Joni Mitchell, a reflective performer who writes about both personal experiences and social concerns with equal artistry and vigor.                 

Son Volt - The Search
Transmit Sound/Legacy (March 6, 2007)  
Son Volt’s follow-up to 2005's Okemah and the Melody of Riot is an eclectic collection of songs which expand the band’s musical landscape into unchartered territory. Memphis-style horns provide the backing for the CD’s first single "The Picture." Jay Farrar borrows from George Harrison and incorporates East Indian influences on the opening track "Slow Hearse." But the CD’s highlights are bunched together near the end of the recording. The triumvirate of "Methamphetamine," "L Train," and "Highways and Cigatettes" reflect Farrar’s return to folk music in the vein of his work with Anders Parker on last years Gob Iron release.                     

Hayward Williams - Another Sailor's Dream
Machine Records (Released March 6, 2007)  
Formerly a member of the Wisconsin-based band Exit, Hayward Williams has drawn comparisons to Ryan Adams, Jay Farrar and Van Morrison. His latest release is entitled Another Sailor’s Dream. Williams is a captivating singer-songwriter whose age belies his seasoned and mature vocal ability. All of the songs on Another Sailor’s Dream are written by Williams with the notable exception of "Thunder Road." The Springsteen song is re-worked as a haunting folk song in a style far removed from the original rock anthem. Even Springsteen’s own acoustic version doesn’t bear the darkness or depth of Williams’ take delivered here. Speaking of The Boss, "Careful, Please" is a jug-band style romp which would have fit nicely on Springsteen’s recent The Seeger Sessions compilation. But the highlight of the Williams’ latest release may be plaintive and intimate ballad "Problems with Hemingway." The song melds melody and message in a style reflective of Townes Van Zandt. Keep an eye (and an ear) open for Hayward Williams - you will probably be hearing more from him.                     

Matt Burt - Matt Burt
Broken Oak Records (Released 2007)  
The self-titled CD release from Matt Burt reflects a return to songwriting for the New York based performer. After playing in a variety of bands in the 70s and 80s, Burt took a break from performing and returned to New York. In 1999, Burt began performing again and continued to develop his songwriting. Burt’s musical journey has culminated in Matt Burt, a collection of 11 songs penned by Burt and featuring a rock-based Americana sound. Citing musical influences such as Gram Parsons, Steve Earle and Uncle Tupelo, Burt incorporates just enough folk and country influences to keep the music from sounding cliche. The tasteful use of pedal steel on "Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell" and reverb-soaked guitar on "I’ll Always Be Here" are the type of touches which distinguish recordings such as this from run-of-the-mill indie-rock releases.                     

The Donnis Trio - All Directions
Shady Tree Records (Released 2006)  
The Donnis Trio are a San Diego-based band comprised of singer-songwriter Nate Donnis, bassist Denis Sluka and percussionist Phil Woodring. The band’s debut release entitled All Directions consists of 14 original songs featuring a laid-back groove and a plethora of ear-teasing hooks. Though the CD’s sound is rooted in acoustic folk-rock, the band seamlessly incorporates a broad range of musical styles including pop, reggae and Spanish influences. This earnest collection of songs is anchored by Nate Donnis’s distinctive and intimate vocals. "No Other Place," "Walk On In" and "Tip of the Tongue" are notable highlights.                    

Rob Lutes - Ride The Shadows
Independent (Released 2006)  
Ride The Shadows is the third release from Montreal singer-songwriter Rob Lutes. The award-winning performer has garnered numerous awards and nominations since his debut CD, including winning selections at the 2001 Kerrville New Folk Songwriting competition in Kerrville, Texas and the 2004 Philadelphia Songwriters Project Road Song contest. Heavily grounded in folk and blues, Ride The Shadows is a collection of melodic and hook-laden songs which span the spectrum of Americana influences. The release even includes an amazing cover of the Otis Redding soul classic "That’s How Strong My Love Is." Other highlights include the poignant "Throw Me From This Train" and the compelling title track. If you like literate blues-based Americana with a keen sense of melody, then check out Rob Lutes’ latest release.                    

Earl Musick - Duck and Cover
Reload Record Company  
Duck and Cover is the fourth release from Fort Worth singer-songwriter Earl Musick - and it's most certainly his best collection of songs to date.  Musick adopts a more aggressive approach on the new CD - both musically and lyrically.  The opening track "Had Enough" is an upbeat country rocker backed by Mark Merritt's stellar lead guitar.  "Burrough's Blues" is a throwback to the swamp-rock sounds of the bayou, while "Darlina" features an approximation of the Bo Diddley beat in an homage to love and the City of New Orleans. New Orleans is a recurring theme on the CD. Lyrically, Musick pulls no punches when it comes to social commentary and the situation in the Crescent City provides the theme for "Custer's Last Stand." Musick proclaims, "When the waters rise and people die and nobody gives a damn, we'll just replace the whole human race on the eve of Custer's last stand." And its easy to identify the source of Musick's ire when he sings "The cat is out of the bag, don't you know the jig is up, just round up all your friends and get out, we've all had enough." "Duck and Cover" is indeed good advice from Mr. Musick.                    

Jane Gillman - List of Wishes
High Road Records  
Review By John Davy
A nice album, this, the very model of a well-crafted country pop record in the general area of Mary Chapin Carpenter, with several nods in a slightly folkier direction. "My Impatient Heart", for example, had me double checking that it wasn't actually an Eleanor McEvoy song. Ten songs, then, that deal with emotional complexities - entangled love lives, dreams of escape from the muddied burdens of real life - in simple, clear imagery. There is nothing complex or obtuse to have you scratching your head, but short, two-line images that stick in the mind and give you something to daydream over.  Click here for John Davy's full review.