Shelby Lynne - I Can't Imagine (2015)

I Can't Imagine, Shelby Lynne's 13th full-length album and first for Rounder Records, is the most beautifully crafted and intensely affecting set of songs since her landmark I Am Shelby Lynne in 2000. It starts, as always, with that voice. Two parts Alabama sunshine; one part Memphis rainstorm, it's one of the most gorgeous sounding instruments in all of popular music. Comprising 10 new songs written or co-written by the GRAMMY winning singer-songwriter, I Can't Imagine is powered by Lynne's lustrous, virtuosic vocal performance, indelible, sparkling songwriting, and the sympathetic, versatile playing of a top-flight band, led by guitarist Ben Peeler.

The songs themselves reflect a panoply of Lynne's influences from Southern soul, Crescent City R&B, and California country & western to the ardent social consciousness of precursors like Woody Guthrie and even the roots 'n blues vocalizing of Billie Holiday all brought into clear focus by Lynne's keen, sophisticated pop sensibility. An artist in full creative command, Shelby Lynne's I Can't Imagine is an inspired work of purity and depth - sure to be one of 2015's most essential recordings.

TRACKLIST

01. Paper Van Gogh
02. Back Door Front Porch
03. Sold The Devil (Sunshine)
04. Son Of A Gun
05. Down Here
06. Love Is Strong
07. Better
08. Be In The Now
09. Following You
10. I Can't Imagine