Hailing from the legendary motor city are The Volebeats, and their 2010 self-titled 19-track release is a remarkable collection that serves as a great introduction to this little known band. With a mix of Americana country folk rock, Motown rhythms, gorgeous harmonies, and spare instrumentation, The Volebeats create a sound that conjures Gram Parsons, The Byrds, and Simon & Garfunkel yet remains fresh. The themes are traditional – love, relationships and heartbreak – and the studio production is minimal, making for some simple, great music. Standouts include opener “With You,” “I Can Tell,” “I’m Not Gonna Change My Mind,” and a cover of Ray Davies’ (The Kinks) “This Is Where I Belong.” – Written by JFelton
SIMILAR | The Autumn Defense, Dolorean, The Jayhawks, Old 97s, Outrageous Cherry, The Sadies