Then Again
New West, 2026
10/10
An album of songs mostly recorded decades ago, the inimitable Rodney Crowell is joined by plenty of well known names for these 10 Americana songs of all substance.
The soft and heartfelt “I Won’t Lie” opens with Crowell gentle voice alongside Greg Morrow’s thumping drums as the setting gets a little more firm, and “Are You One Of Us?” follows with Guy Clark on hand for the mix of talking and singing that invites harmonica to the gentle versus busy bouts.
In the middle, “Sing Your Heart Out” welcomes Kieran Goss and Annie Kinsella’s gorgeous voices amid David Henry’s cello for the poetic climate, while “Whatcha Gonna Do Now #2” recruits beats, and Lyle Lovett and Chely Wright’s contributions that suits the stylish and frisky version of rootsy sounds.
Residing near the end, “40 Winters” lands in dreamy territory via Crowell’s diverse voice, John Hobbs’ well timed keys and stirring acoustic guitar, and “Go Light A Candle” exits with Emmylou Harris and Lera Lynn’s voices, who complement Jaime Dick’s drums, Will Honaker’s bass, Dan Knobler’s guitar, Kai Welch’s keys and, of course, Crowell’s always captivating storytelling.
A collection that considers death but celebrates life, most people wouldn’t shelve a record this great, but thankfully Crowell has finally gifted us this thoughtful, Americana masterpiece.
Travels well with: Rodney Crowel- Airline Highway; James McMurtry- The Black Dog And The Wandering Boy