Album

Eighth LP from north country boys, recorded in 10 days

Big beat entrepreneurs uncover alt.country gem

The good doctor uncovers sprawling, mysterious history of his native city

Last year's Hey Harmony cemented Thomas Hansen's reputation, but the ex-postman and Norwegian Third Division footballer has dismissed it as the work of a man who'd "lost himself somewhere on the road, together with alcohol and marijuana." On this fourth opus, he's wrested control from the demons and emerges bolder, though perhaps less darkly alluring. The finest moments remain wondrous, though: "Silence Break Your Heart"'s spookily ethereal undertow; the strained vocal kink of "Waltzing Around Insane".

Reissue of polemical punk-funksters' second album

Now 77, Jimmy Martin has been a bluegrass legend since he became lead singer and guitarist in Bill Monroe's band in 1949 and helped pioneer that "High Lonesome Sound" (see This Month In Americana, p98). His story is told through archive and contemporary footage, and Martin proves to be a highly engaging raconteur, although you might wish for a little more music and fewer talking heads.

First new album since '96's Guitar Man

Tchad Blake-produced fourth album from British blues-rockers

Sixth release from Clarksboro, New Jersey's holy roller

Despite drug battles and internal strife, Jeff Tweedy's band sound newly liberated