Jon Young

EDITOR’S NOTE: As the end of the year approaches, we’re taking a look back at albums we weren’t able to review when they first came out. War Planes was released in September. Trauma and sadness cut deep on War Planes, the gently devastating Americana gem from Jacob

Dori Freeman would likely make a good friend in real life. Do You Recall, her compelling fifth LP, features vivid tales of romantic friction that will inspire nods of recognition, introspective monologues sure to ring true for anyone used to self-interrogation, and righteous declarations of outrage at the lousy state

Sisters Lily and Madeleine Jurkiewicz know how to make an entrance. Their stunning fifth album, Nite Swim, starts gently, the languid piano and violin promising a soothing interlude, but the mellow vibe is promptly shattered by the opening lyric: “I don’t know why you hate me.” And it’s

From Sonny and Cher to George and Tammy to Ike and Tina, husband-and-wife teams have made all sorts of remarkable music over the years. Add to this distinguished list Albuquerque’s Handsome Family, the handiwork of spouses Brett and Rennie Sparks, who’ve practiced their wonderfully bent take on Americana

Teddy Thompson has been here before. In 2007, the son of British folk greats Richard and Linda Thompson took a detour from recording original material to put down some vintage country songs on his third album, Upfront & Down Low. (However, his first two outings both included Everly Brothers songs

Lori McKenna lays her heart bare on the compelling 1988, painting vivid scenes of youthful discovery and taking a hopeful glimpse into the future. The Massachusetts native takes the weight of the world on her shoulders as she remembers friends and lovers who lost their way and ponders difficult life