Dustin Brown
Self-Released, 2025
9/10
The Texas artist Dustin Brown returns with a 3rd album, where his sincere songwriting and timeless Americana welcomes Christopher Smith, Joe Allan, Tyler Ralston, James Bartosh and Rachel Cole.
“Skins And Shirts” opens with a warm, melodic spirit, where Smith’s thumping drums complement the driving climate, and “Falcon 9” follows with some ruggedness via the rootsy appeal where Bartosh’s strategic bass won’t go unnoticed.
“Baby Don’t” lands in the middle with plenty of country nods and some twang thanks to the sturdy guitar and gritty vocals, while “Ain’t No Love” is an intimate moment of beauty and sincere storytelling.
Residing closer to the end, the hushed and poetic “29th Of March” finds itself in folk territory, and “Old Houses” exits with a heartfelt demeanor and rich vision that’s both timeless and memorable.
Brown takes influences from legends like Blaze Foley, Steve Earle, Billy Joe Shaver and Townes Van Zandt, and his many life experiences and lengthy background in music (he was playing in biker bands while in high school) makes for a wise and relatable version of Americana.
Travels well with: JD Graham- A Pound Of Dust; Matt The Cat Hillyer- Bright Skyline