Gregory Alan Isakov is a Johannesburg, South African native raised in Philly who has since made Boulder, CO his home. Much like Isakov’s life, This Empty Northern Hemisphere was recorded in a migratory fashion: in an abandoned bookshop, Isakov’s apartment, in the studio and at Brandi Carlile’s house, who also backed Isakov on a handful of songs. Isakov’s brand of DIY folk is warm, intelligent and richly crafted, featuring lush arrangements that bring to mind starry skies, salty seascapes and dusty travels. This Empty Northern Hemisphere has quickly become one of my favorite albums of the year.