Reunions is the only folk/Americana release to make my favorite albums of 2020 and that's simply because it's the best release of its kind from the year. Alabama's own Jason Isbell started as a member of Drive-By Truckers, before splitting from the band to start his solo career in 2007. Since that time he has cemented his reputation as one of our finest songwriters, and that is on full display on Reunions.
The fourth album with his band The 400 Unit, and seventh overall since going solo, Reunions wound up on so many national best of year lists for a reason. Musically, Isbell And The 400 Unit draw on everything from folk, country, rock and soul. Lyrically, this is the best album in my top ten of the year. Isbell has never shied from being open and outspoken about politics, the failures of our leaders, our failures and triumphs as humans, his battles with sobriety, the music business, family, love, you name it and it's that level of honesty that continues on Reunions. "What've I Done To Help" is both a reflection on personal shortcomings to make the world better, as well as a call out to the listener to ask the same question of themselves. "Only Children", a look back on a friend who died young, tugs at the heartstrings in its beauty. "Be Afraid" is a defiant anthem that sums up Isbell's disdain for empty songwriting and those afraid to take a stand for what is right as he sings, "We don't take requests, we won't shut up and sing. Tell the truth enough, you'll find it rhymes with everything." "St. Peter's Autograph" is a gorgeous ballad written for Isbell's wife, and band mate, Amanda Shires, vowing his support in helping her grieve the loss of a close friend. And "Letting You Go" addresses a parent's love for his child as he watches them grow into an adult, ready to branch off into their own life. Heady, emotional stuff from a master songwriter.
Favorite tracks: "Only Children", "What've I Done To Help", "St. Peter's Autograph", "Overseas"
Reunions was released May 15th, 2020 on Southeastern Records.
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