Henry Wagons’ latest album, “The Four Seasons”, is an enthralling exploration of alt-country music that fuses classic and contemporary styles. This album demonstrates Wagons’ distinctive talent for combining humour, feeling, and musical exploration into a unified and captivating listening experience that leaves you wanting more and awaiting the chance to embrace this album in a live experience, dimly lit, smoke filled room, whiskey in hand.

Early in the album Wagons leads us into “Freight Train (Going South),” with eerie backing vocals and a piercing train horn establish the mood. With lyrics like “once you ride this train, you ain’t gonna want to ride trains no more,” Wagons ‘s deep, resonant voice evokes a feeling of exploration and self-reflection. Wagons’ talent for combining comedy and emotional storytelling is on full display in this and other songs like “I’m Glad I Fell In Love With You,” which incorporates pedal steel and sobbing mandolins.

Among the notable collaborations on the album are the duets with Queenie, a fellow Melburnian. Queenie’s vocals elevate the dramatic stakes of “Open The Door,” which culminate in a musically violent climax that is a stunning contrast to the introverted piano melody. The slower shuffle rhythm and pedal steel of “Surrender” evoke feelings of hesitancy and self-reflection, revealing a more sensitive side of the artist.

The instrumental interludes that distinguish “The Four Seasons” are a notable aspect of the album. With its hints of openness and independence muted by sinister undertones, “Autumn” evokes the atmosphere of a contemporary western mood piece. Leaning into a Sergio Leone-inspired soundscape, “Summer” has whistling and echoey brass that evokes visions of expansive, sun-kissed vistas. Minimalists in structure, “Winter” showcases acoustic guitar and swaying synths, while “Spring” provides a quick, energetic soundscape. Together, they make an impression and almost like brief intermezzo’s of the seasons and the landscape experience of Wagons’ himself.

The versatility of Wagons’ sound is on full display throughout the record. The semi-mechanized rhythm and swelling trumpets of “Park At The Station (Friends Of Mine)” create a new Melbourne ballad that delves into pragmatic crises and tales of friendship. With its bluesy tones and the touch of booze on the lips “Are You Impressed” gives the album yet another emotional edge that is hard to escape.

When experienced as a whole, “The Four Seasons” demonstrates Henry Wagons’ adaptability and originality. Sit back, relax, and let yourself be swept away by the album’s complex, lush soundscapes. Everyone from classic country music lovers to those seeking more contemporary sounds will find something they like on this album. With his deep voice, astute lyrics, and a wide array of musical influences, The Four Seasons is an outstanding alt-country album and one sure to feature in several end of year lists and awards nominations.

Country music icon Dwight Yoakam returns with Brighter Days, his first album of new music in nearly a decade. This release showcases not only Yoakam’s signature honky-tonk flair but also a more introspective side, inspired by his journey as a husband and family man. The album feels like a celebration of love, resilience, and the beauty of simpler moments, wrapped in Yoakam’s timeless blend of traditional and modern country sounds.

The album kicks off with “Wide Open Heart,” an upbeat, twangy anthem that channels Yoakam’s classic sound. It’s a song of love and commitment, where he opens up about finding strength in vulnerability. The track sets the tone for the album with its catchy rhythm and heartfelt lyrics, reminding fans why Yoakam’s voice and style remain so compelling.

The album progresses with Yoakam’s iconic insight to honky tonk and country music highlighting every track before “A Dream That Never Ends” slows things down, bringing a reflective, almost wistful energy. Yoakam’s vocals feel particularly emotive here, as he sings about cherishing the present moment.

Brighter Days also features three intriguing cover songs that showcase Yoakam’s ability to blend influences from across genres. The Carter Family’s “Keep On The Sunny Side” is a tribute to classic country, bringing a comforting sense of nostalgia. Cake’s “Bound Away” introduces an indie flair, and Yoakam’s take on Chris Hillman’s “Time Between” pays homage to The Byrds’ roots-rock legacy, infusing it with his own honky-tonk twist.

The standout track on Brighter Days has to be “I Don’t Know How To Say Goodbye,” a surprise duet with Post Malone. This unexpected pairing works beautifully, as Yoakam’s rich, earthy tone complements Malone’s raw, emotional delivery. Together, they fuse generations and highlight one’s legendary status in country music and the others respectful and soulful homage which makes this one of the standouts not only on this album, but also of 2024.

Throughout Brighter Days, Yoakam’s lyrics reflect his personal growth and new perspectives. The themes of love, family, and finding light in dark times are woven through each song, creating a cohesive narrative that feels genuine and heartfelt. After nine years, Yoakam’s return with Brighter Days reminds us of his undeniable talent for storytelling and his unique ability to bridge the old and the new in country music. Fans of Yoakam will find plenty to love in this album, which not only celebrates his legacy but also signals a new chapter in his life and career.

In the latest episode of the Country HQ Spotlight On Podcast, host Adam Simon sits down with Australian honky tonk sensation James Ellis to chat about his brand-new album, The Party Might Be Over. Known for his blend of classic honky tonk with a modern twist, Ellis takes listeners behind the scenes of his latest project, recorded remotely between Melbourne and Nashville during the pandemic. Despite the distance, producer Micah Hulscher brought together some of Nashville’s finest musicians to bring Ellis’s vision to life, including Fats Kaplin, Chris Scruggs, and Lillie Mae, who all lent their incredible talents to the album.

Ellis shares stories about the inspiration behind some standout tracks, including Lonely, Sad and Blue, Don’t Drink By Yourself (If You Can’t Be Drunk Alone), and Today Is Just Another Day. The episode dives into the songwriting process, his collaboration with Hulscher, and the challenge of capturing that classic Nashville sound from afar. Fans of Ellis and honky tonk won’t want to miss this deep dive into his latest work and his journey as an artist. Tune in to Country HQ Spotlight On for a heartfelt conversation that celebrates the spirit of honky tonk and the resilience of country music.