On his fifth album, country troubadour Hayes Carll has stripped back his songs to a place of contemplation with slow-burning tales of heartache. It’s a languid and casual affair where the songs drift by, conjuring up late humid nights on the back porch with a bottle for company and a head full of confessional and personal songs. That in-the-moment mood was captured live in the studio and on particular songs such as the world-weary Jealous Moon, the intimacy is riveting – gently drawing the listener in deep. Carl’s lived-in delivery and his songwriting are a perfect fit. Distraction-free listening is recommended to really appreciate this album’s tone and nuances.

Chris Familton