Three new Americana tracks that echo with the sounds of the past

Joe Nolan – “Too Much Time to Kill”
-If you’re a fan of authentic acoustic guitar with meaningful lyrics, you’ll find a lot to like with this new track from Joe Nolan. There’s a plaintive element to the delivery that feels minimalist in all the right ways. I can hear a dash of Dylan in the vocal. The unhurried style works perfectly for the folk-Americana connection. The vocal harmony (by the amazing Sara Watkins) enters the track, creating an alchemic sound that brings together a genuine feel that is greater than the sum of its parts. The lyrical message is an invitation for someone named Loretta to go with him. He’s not clear where, but it seems to be away from a two-star town. It conjures memories of artists like Jackson Browne and Joe Cocker; it works really well here.

Kyle Morgan and Tamar Korn – “Life’s Railway to Heaven”
-If you’re looking for more of a down-home country sound, definitely check out this track from Kyle Morgan and Tamar Korn. I’ve been a fan of roots country for most of my life, a sound influenced by both of my grandfathers. Hearing this sound connects at a soulful level for me. It’s so pure, the Carter Family would be proud of this one. They even capture the careful vocal connection between gospel and folk sounds. It feels like a mountain hymn; in fact, that’s pretty much what it is. I could not love this sound any more. It’s absolutely a balm to my soul.

Stephen McCorry – “Lombard Street”
-There’s a color and texture to the piano on this song that captured my heart on first listen. Then the vocal… wow, that’s great too. The whole composition comes together for a comfortable vibe that defies genre in the best way possible. This is the quintessential Americana track because it brings together elements of folk, jazz, and pop to create a sound that is truly lovely. The line “under those apricot lanterns smirking in the wind” just… does something to me. It’s deliciously descriptive and feels like something I’ve seen before, blending nostalgia with literary verve. This whole track is a treat from start to finish. As a lifelong horn player, I love the inclusion of horns for a little extra flavor. It’s a beautiful sound and I’m so glad to have had the chance to hear and feature it.

Image courtesy: Tamar Korn IG