Delta Spirit: Ode To Sunshine (Rounder) - Cheers to San Diego five-piece Delta Spirit’s debut album Ode To Sunshine. Self-released in 2007, it’s been re-mastered and repackaged stalwart roots imprint by Rounder. Americana, Indie Rock and soul coalesce for a true album experience. In an age where music production is often tailored download singles, it’s consistent strength is rather refreshing. Road-weathered vocals, dustbowl electric guitar, spirited piano and jubilant rhythms are hallmarks. Some harmonica, tambourine, and acoustic guitar strums add a folkier side. Though them times they are a changing (still), it’s nice to be re-assured some things stay the same. Recommended.
Johnny Flynn: A Larum (Lost Highway/Vertigo) - A Larum is Middle English for “an alarm”. Folk balladeer Johnny Flynn’s stateside debut connects centuries of British folk traditions with an Americana blend of folk, blues and country to create his contemporary folk sounds. Minimal acoustic instrumentation of guitar, cello, violin, mandolin, trumpet, spoons, etc. are bolstered by muscular drums and bass. In the tradition, Flynn’s lyrics sing of life, love and loss from a common-man viewpoint. Recommended.
Horse Feathers: House with No Home (Kill Rock Stars) - Charmingly haunted minimalist Americana from Portland, Oregon. Leader Justin Ringle’s whispered vocals convey themes of love and loss with economy. The instrumentation is gentle and airy, with varied layers of guitar, banjo, percussion, piano, musical saw and strings. Despite the breadth of instrumentation, the arrangements don’t become bloated, allowing the purity of the emotion to come through clearly. RIYL: Iron and Wine Recommended.
