JUSTIN TOWNES EARLE

On his fourth album, Justin Townes Earle’s lonesome croon is a cool salve for the downhearted. A musical drifter, he’s  stepped away from traditional country to explore the sultry arrangements of Muscle Shoals. The album begins with “Am I That Lonely Tonight?” a solemn dirge that references his famous father, Steve. Going forward, Earle shuffles through a variety of genres—blues, folk and gospel—like an eager traveler winding down America’s highways. His unvarnished voice sounds right at home among instrumental fills of upright bass and soulful horns. Earle essays a number of weepy ballads, but also shows the arrogance of a stubborn rogue. When admitting his troubles with women (“Maria,” “Unfortunately, Anna”) and addressing his recent stint in rehab (“Won’t Be the Last Time”), you can hear echoes of Dad’s headstrong attitude. This talented troubadour has carried his own hard-won lessons, both painful and empowering, all the way to the brink and back. –Blake Boldt