Isbell, Godwin, 49 Winchester play Bonnaroo

Live From The Ryman Vol. 2

Jason Isbell opens by telling the audience this is their 50th appearance at the legendary Ryman, a feat not many can equal. Moreover, it's the recent seven, eight and now 10-day residencies that Isbell and his band have experienced, a testament to the in-demand status of one of the best live performing bands of today. The multiple dates ensure that the listener is getting the best versions of 15 of Isbell's songs (the shows were 19 or 20 songs), culled from his two recent albums, ...

Weathervanes

Bob Dylan famously sang about how you don't need a weatherman to know which way the wind blows, and Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit do more than just gage wind direction with "Weathervanes." Isbell has a unique ability to get deep inside the heads of his various characters to reveal insightful patterns of thought and behavior. Along with his talented 400 Unit band, Isbell has given yet another smart set of songs. Isbell is especially adept at diagnosing pain points. ...

Georgia Blue

Jason Isbell deserves kudos for putting a unique spin on the benefit album. Instead of throwing together a bunch of many times unrelated celebrities to pitch in, Isbell has brought together talented performers to cover Georgia-related songs and songs by Georgia-based artists. All proceeds support Black Voters Matter, Fair Fight and Georgia Stand-Up. Even if you may not support these groups, you will still enjoy this set of mostly familiar songs. The album opens and closes with two R.E.M. songs. ...