Album Review: Reunions by Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit

Release Date: May 15 2020

I often hear people say “I just can’t get into country music”. But this album along with some others over the last few years (The Highwoman and Orville peck come to mind) have shown a positive resurgence of really good contemporary country music. I think that if you’re willing to give country a chance this might a perfect entry album. It feels authentic with the twangy guitars and Jason’s Alabaman accent, but not as stereotypically lame as one might think. There’s not one mention of tractors or dirt or anything like that. The mood of this album is sentimental reflection and vulnerability. Jason sings about things like his daughter, a breakup and his struggles with alcohol addiction , with a compelling level of openness. I thought that it was awesome when he described his own alcoholism with such unabashed confidence. Normalising it without condoning it. I thought that was the highlight of the album. There’s really not that much to complain about. I’m thinking of making a list of great contemporary country albums.

Favourite Songs: Overseas, Be Afraid, St Peter's Autograph, It Gets Easier

Score: 8.8/10

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