Halfsies by Lizzie No (19 Jan)
Brooklyn’s Lizzie No showcases the breadth of her talent on her forthcoming album. From folk to rock to pop – there’s a little bit of everything, all with an engaging indie vibe.
Letting the Lions In by Dinty Child (19 Jan)
Dinty Child is a mainstay of the Boston music scene, known for his work with Session Americana and for supporting numerous singer-songwriters as a multi-instrumentalist. In between all of that, he found time to record a new solo album. It’s filled with talented friends and, of course, Child’s catchy tunes.
The duo of Tim Hunter and Malarie McConaha may have taken their name from a Leonard Cohen song but their music is bluesy and soulful. There’s nothing like starting the year with a great new musical discovery.
The Rattle and the Clatter by Session Americana (2 Feb)
I don’t ordinarily include career retrospectives on this list but Session Americana are no ordinary band. The Boston musical collective features a talented crew of songwriters and musicians. For 20 years their performances, both in the studio and on stage, captivate with their authenticity and personality. They mark the occasion with a collection that pulls songs from across their incredible catalog.
The Knockdown Dragout by Chris J Norwood and the Knockdown Dragout (9 Feb)
I’m really not sure how many musicians make up The Knockdown Dragout, but it’s clearly a large number. The Dallas group, led by Chris J Norwood, share a debut that is chock full of music that hearkens back to 1970’s R&B soul and R&B, replete with plenty of horns and a string section.
Dawn of a New Error by James Mastro (21 Feb)
New Jersey’s James Mastro has spent the past two decades as an in-demand guitarist and producer, working with the likes of Ian Hunter and Alejandro Escovedo, to name just two. In February he returns to his singer-songwriter roots with a rocking new solo album. (And be sure to read our recent interview with him.)
The Past Is Still Alive by Hurray for the Riff Raff (23 Feb)
If the lead single is any indication, Alynda Segarra – aka Hurray for the Riff Raff – is back with another rootsy pop gem.
Tender Heart by Mia Dyson (23 Feb)
Australian singer-songwriter Mia Dyson moves beyond her blues rock roots with a tranquil and contemplative new album.
El Viejo by Corb Lund (23 Feb)
Canadian country singer Lund strips things down on his forthcoming album. Lund and his band – the Hurtin’ Albertans – recorded the acoustic album at the singer-songwriter’s house.
Cher Reve by Miss Tess (23 Feb)
Nashville’s Miss Tess is a consummate student of American music. Her latest album explores numerous corners of Americana, from zydeco and cajun to country and folk, all delivered with her typical warmth and charm.
Bats in the Attic by The Northern Belle (8 Mar)
Singer-songwriter Stine Andreassen of The Northern Belle drew inspiration for the band’s latest album from a collection of letters that her seafaring grandfather wrote to her grandmother while he was away from home. True to form, the Norwegian group bring the songs to life with glistening allure.
Sketch of a Promised Departure by Joe Pug (8 Mar)
One of Americana’s most thoughtful and distinguished songwriters returns with his first full-length album since 2019’s The Flood in Color. Will it be worth the wait? Guaranteed.
Aurora by Brother Dege (15 Mar)
If you like your blues dark, raw, and swampy, Louisana’s Brother Dege has got you covered. Expect plenty of slide guitar and dobro, a cornerstone of Dege’s sound.
Revelations by Sarah Shook and the Disarmers (29 Mar)
Sarah Shook and the Disarmers return with another twang-filled rock album, prime for roadhouse weekend listening.
Zero Gravity by The HawtThorns (5 Apr)
KP and Johnny Hawthorn have a knack for blending Americana and pop into an irresistible confection – expect more of the same with their forthcoming album.
Baltic Street Hotel by Sophie Gault (12 Apr)
Nashville’s Sophie Gault highlights several facets of her musical personality with an album that mixes singer-songwriter fare with some infectious rockers.
Jump Rope by Buffalo Tom (May)
One of Boston’s best keep doing what they do so well. Catchy melodies delivered in electrified power trio style – it doesn’t get much better.
Stay Gold by Phil Hurley (Spring)
Austin’s Phil Hurley cut his chops in Twangville faves Gigolo Aunts, Stonehoney, and South Austin Moonlighters. He’s now on his own but expect more of what has made his earlier music so special – catchy power pop hooks delivered in a slick rock and Americana package.
About the author: Mild-mannered corporate executive by day, excitable Twangville denizen by night.