The Way I Should
Yep Roc, 2026
9/10
Originally released in 1996, this 3rd album from the influential singer-songwriter Iris DeMent sees the reissue treatment, where a large cast helps illuminate the insightful political wordplay.
“When My Mornin’ Comes Around” opens with DeMent’s warm piano and powerful pipes guiding the emotive climate, and “There’s A Wall In Washington” follows wth Harry Stinson’s agile drumming that suits the meticulous keys and expressiving singing from DeMent.
Halfway through, “This Kind Of Happy” benefits from Brent Mason’s intricate guitar solo via the dreamy mood, while “The Way I Should” carries a frisky tone via Mark Knopfler’s rich guitar playing and Melodie Crittenden’s well timed backing vocals.
“Walkin’ Home” and “Trouble” exit the listen. The former is a textured and intimate album highlight where Paul Franklin’s steel guitar won’t go unnoticed, and the latter will get you on the dance floor thank to Lonnie Mack’s animated guitar and Delbert McClinton’s bright harmonica and vocals.
An album of chilling beauty and a highly personal nature, it’s hard to believe this is 3 decades old, as DeMent’s vision sure has aged well and wouldn’t be out of place in today’s indie-folk scene.
Travels well with: Grant-Lee Phillips- In The Hour Of Dust; Jesper Lindell- 3614 Jackson Highway