Three Americana tracks that will make you crinkle your nose with delight

River and Rail – “Down”
-There’s a lightness in the vocal here that definitely caught my attention from first play. I appreciate how the delicate work from the electric guitar helps to create some perspective as well. The full connection between elements on this track feels like equal parts Americana and folksy storytelling. Elements like the slide guitar and fiddle give it just the slightest country vibe, but the folksy harmonies bring it back to a rootsy vibe. I think Americana is a nice catchall for the sound and, honestly, the lyrics as well. It’s a rooted narrative about movement and finally finding a place to settle down after a life of finding it difficult to slow down. There’s both a sonic and lyrical resonance that I have with this track and I hope other listeners will feel it as well. I can’t help but think of Andrea von Kampen when I listen to this… and that’s high praise as she’s one of my all time favs.

The Lone Bellow – “When You Were Young”
-I don’t remember the first time I heard the Lone Bellow, but I know that we’ve featured them here before. I also know that they’re kind of a big deal now, so it’s super flattering that they still care to send music to us. They’re beyond “emerging” but we’re happy to have them. Check out these incredible vocal harmonies! This is exactly the kind of folk and Americana sound that we love curating around here. The dynamics on the way they sing “when you… were youunnnnng” on the chorus feels exactly right. If you’re a fan of a certain again (yep, most of us), looking back on youthful adventures can really fill your heart with vibes. It surprises me that I can remember days (and nights!) from decades ago as well as I can last week sometimes. Those memories that are emblazoned on our souls… those are the ones this song is about and gosh — I am absolutely here for it.

Sara Trunzo – “In Your Mercy (Malcolm Holcombe cover)”
-I don’t feature covers very often, so when I do it’s because it’s either a great song or a brilliant performance. In this case, it’s both. Trunzo brings this sweet, endearing style to this track that makes it feel like you could lean in and connect with the track. I don’t like to throw this comparison around too readily, but the easy going harmonies here remind me a lot of the tenderness of The Civil Wars. I really appreciate the unhurried style from the band on this recording, allowing Trunzo’s narrative expression to come through. The bass carries a lot of weight on this recording, providing a true backbone to the sound that carries the melody through the track. It’s a full composition that is rewarding to the ear and provides an excellent structure to allow the emotions of the songwriting to come through to the listener. This is an absolute hidden gem; share it if you will.