Country and Americana

Young artists and veteran hitmakers alike created an abundance of memorable tunes in 2019. Post Malone, Jay Som, Beck, and Sharon Van Etten are among them.

Marty Stuart’s ‘The Pilgrim,’ a turning point in his career, reappears with bonus tracks and a book. Plus, Sweet Lizzy Project, Phast Phreddie, and Grant Peeples.

Just in time for the 2020 Grammys, here is my annual list of top releases of 2019 (including Baroness, Lana Del Rey, Neil Young, Lizzo, and Slipknot).

Hank Williams's so-called "Mother's Best" recordings offer essential music. Plus, fine releases from Mick Kolassa and Letitia VanSant.

A three-CD anthology showcases the Honeycombs, a British Invasion group. Plus, Wild Rabbit Salad, the Lil Smokies, and previously unheard work from the Righteous Brothers’ Bobby Hatfield.

I enjoyed myself and would definitely return.

Nearly half a century after Hendrix’s historic two-night stand at the Fillmore East, the performances have been released in full. Plus, Rebecca Turner and reissues from Modern English.

An exceptional Tim Buckley concert surfaces and a Chuck Berry film comes to Blu-ray. Plus material from Elliott Murphy’s archives and a Gene Clark cult favorite.

With his invented instruments and appetite for recasting 20th-century American cultural touchstones, Harry Partch created works that still surprise us, as the new album from the ensemble Partch reminds us.

Bruce Springsteen releases live versions of the songs on his recent ‘Western Stars’ CD. Also: an anthology collects singles from the defunct Rampart Records label; Cajun music from the Revelers; and a 1972 concert from New Riders of the Purple Sage.