There have always been political echoes in the songs of Drive-By Truckers, but their eleventh album is particularly tuned to the times; these songs are designed to incite hard conversations as America stares down not just the frightening possibility of a Trump presidency, but a fragmenting current-state America. Gun violence, racism, gender equality and corruption are all touched upon, while closing track
Baggage was written in the days after the death of Robin Williams and discusses the dangers of unchecked depression. All of these topics alone won't carry an album, though, and fortunately the music is engaged and energized. It rarely dips in tempo, and even the songs that would be considered ballads have some fire in their bellies. By tackling the issues head on and turning in inspired performances, Drive-By Truckers have pulled off perhaps their most important album yet, not just for them but indeed for their country as well.
September 30, 2016 • ATO
Highlights
Darkened Flags on the Cusp of Dawn • Surrender Under Protest • What It Means
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