JASON ISBELL

Last week Bob Dylan won the Nobel Peace prize for literature. A long deserved award. If we go down the list of true American musical poets Bruce Springsteen would be next. And right behind him, JASON ISBELL. ISBELL has created through his words and music a diorama of “real world” southern culture. His canvases paint pictures of the psychologically stunted, romantically broken, and the frustrated blue collar worker. His songs are short stories of love lost and shattered emotions. ISBELL‘s last two releases Southeastern and Something More Than Free (both Southeastern Records) have catapulted him to the star status he has long deserved. From his early years with the Drive By Truckers (including bouts of alcoholism and addiction) to his solo career with his band (the 400 Unit) his storytelling always took center stage. ISBELL‘s lyrics never let you coast. Some make you melancholy, a few make you smile but most sting. Listen to “The Life You Chose” and “Songs That She Sang In the Shower” and your heart aches. Try “Live Oak”, “Yvette” and “Speed Trap Town” and everything aches. The hurt and emotion jump off the record. His most personal song “Elephant” epitomizes ISBELL‘s ability to transport the listener into his world. A gripping song about cancer that almost everyone can relate and cry to. Even though ISBELL seems comfortable with the seedier side of life he also affirms that the world isn’t all turmoil. In his big hit from Southeastern, “Cover Me Up” he applauds his new found sobriety and the coveting of his new love (wife Amanda Shire). And he can also make you smile. In “Super 8” the story is light and comical. A treat from ISBELL. One last note. Even without ISBELL‘s poetic prowess his melodies can carry the day.

My wife and I caught his show in New Haven at the College Street Music Hall and must say it was a wondrous show. As a showman he captivated the audience both in musicianship and presentation. His music was both strong and sobering. ISBELL is on the cusp. Soon he will be performing in arenas. Don’t miss him now while you can feel the music up close and personal.

JASON ISBELL and the 400 Unit

• Jason Isbell——-Vocals/Guitar
• Sadler Vaden—–Guitar/Vocals
• Jimbo Hart——–Bass
• Derry DeBorja—–Keys
• Chad Gamble—–Drums

Something More Than Free is ISBELL‘s fifth release

• Sirens of the Ditch——————–2007
• Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit——2009
• Here We Rest————————-2011
• Southeastern————————-2013
• Something More Than Free——–2015

Jason Isbell is currently on tour

Next post———Glass Animals

 

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