#458 Jason Isbell, 'Southeastern' (2013)

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This, the fourth album by Jason Isbell, was recorded following a stint and rehab and without the backing of his band, The 400 Unit. An often stark record relying heavily on Isbell’s astounding vocals and lyrics. What makes it more impressive is that most vocals were recorded in one or two takes.

A deeply personal album, it was completed a day or two before his wedding to Amanda Shires, who provides vocals and fiddle on a couple of songs. The centrepiece of the record is ‘Elephant.’ As a fan of his work, I was surprised to have never listened to this one. It’s great and I’m sure to return to it in the future. One thing to mention, though, the song ‘Super 8’ sound so similar to ‘Achy Breaky Heart’ to me. It almost turned me off the record. Almost.

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