OK, it’s just a first listen, as NPR says, but this new Jason Isbell album Something More Than Free is excellent — a stirring followup to Southeastern.
From NPR’s writeup:
Isbell’s formula hasn’t been modified much since his triumphant, Americana Award-winning album Southeastern from 2013. Then again, he’s never been about reinventing a wheel that isn’t broken. Rustic twang, shuffling rhythm, piano, fiddles and lap steel swim in a sepia haze; Isbell’s voice is as supple, hushed, piercing and aching as it’s ever been, wielded with the depth and force of a raging confessional.
The new record won’t be officially released until July 27, but you can preorder anytime. Here’s the stream at NPR — not sure how long this embed will work, btw.