When Jason Isbell announced that he was releasing a new self-titled album with his band The 400 Unit, I have to admit that I was a little nervous. His debut album was four years in the making and was one of the pleasant surprises of 2008. When an album is that long in the making, I’m always a little skeptical when the second release comes out soon after. Isbell has laid those concerns to rest.
In addition to dropping about 30-40 pounds since leaving Drive-By Truckers, Isbell has put a stamp on his sound. Gone is the crunching three guitar attack and in its place you’ll find a blend of Muscle Shoals country-soul and down home southern rock.
While this self-titled release is not blazing new trails, Isbell’s songwriting is crisper and more mature. “Cigarettes and Wine” tells the story of a relationship with a bartender and “Soldiers Get Strange” tells the story of soldiers with post-traumatic stress disorder.‚ Much like “Dress Blues” off his debut, the song isn’t meant to be preachy. It’s just meant to tell a story.
This album confirms Jason Isbell as one of the top story-tellers of our day. He’s playing in Chicago tonight at The Double Door with Justin Townes Earle for what promises to be a special night of music.
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Jason Isbell – Seven Mile Island
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