CD Review: Jason Isbell & the 400 unit

By Aaron Davis (for JHWeekly.com)Here We Rest Jason Isbell & The 400 UnitThere are some powerful moments on Here We Rest, one of the more memorable albums of 2011 in the alt-country sector. Disc opener “Alabama Pines” is no less than a standout, showcasing Isbell’s cool country soul of a voice that is consistently comfortable and unforced throughout the set. Less drenched in Southern rock distortion than previous material (including his seven-year run with Drive-By Truckers), the hooky melodies draw the listener closer to what’s at hand here—torn, battered and working class characters of his home state of Alabama.From laidback country lopes (“Codeine”) to funkier R&B stylings (“Heart on a String”) there’s a lot of ground covered. But that works for Isbell, who also has the guitar chops to hang onto the farthest reaching branches of Americana. He’s a rocker with a keen sensitive quality, and that lighter side shines brightest on “Daisy Mae.”The half of this album that is greatness has me wondering why Isbell is not more well-known. Perhaps this is his coming-out party. Catch this band Saturday at Town Square Tavern. tags: jackson hole show music musician live band singer songwriter nightlife concerts wyoming center arts photographer planet teton venues screen door porch boondocks guitar