For more than a decade, it has felt like BJ Barham and I have been growing older in parallel. New Ways To Lose continues that journey, blending working-class observations, hard-earned hope, heartbreaking ballads, and the kind of songwriting that reminds me why American Aquarium remains one of my favorite bands. Another early Album of the Year contender. Continue reading American Aquarium – New Ways To Lose (Review)
The Droptines’ Drought Flower blends Americana darkness with simple rock grooves, banjo, and pedal steel. Led by Conner Arthur’s gravel-worn voice, the Austin band’s second full-length album finds its strength in songs about old habits, hard-earned maturity, and the kind of damage that does not stay buried. Continue reading The Droptines – Drought Flower (Review)
Drayton Farley’s A Heavy Duty Heart feels like the sound of an artist growing into a fuller version of himself. Still capable of pulling the sad-country string, Farley leans more than ever into songs about love, family, and the life waiting back home when the road ends. Continue reading Drayton Farley – A Heavy Duty Heart (Review)
Colton Bowlin’s Grandpa’s Mill leans into family, place, and the stories that tie them together. From nostalgic hometown reflections to a pair of early murder ballads, this sophomore release feels like a step forward—and one that should climb higher on my year-end list. Continue reading Colton Bowlin – Grandpa’s Mill (Album Review)
Johnny Blue Skies refuses to make a “normal” album, and Mutiny After Midnight might be his most unhinged, genre-jumping effort yet. From political gut punches to fu(n)ky, tongue-in-cheek love songs, this early Album of the Year contender proves that even with hoops to listen, the music is worth it. Continue reading Johnny Blue Skies – Mutiny After Midnight (Review)
I Am Weez 