[emperor penguin]

Speaking of female songwriters, Amanda Shires just released one of the best albums of the year IMO. People might know her as Jason Isbell's wife and part-time member of his band the 400 Unit. But she's a damn fine songwriter in her own right, and she's actually released more albums than her husband (this new one is her 7th full-length record). Isbell contributes some kick-ass guitar to a few of the tracks.

Great recommendation! I'm embarrassed to say that I'd never heard of her before. I've got a lot of work digging into the back catalogue ahead of me. Any older albums, in particular, that you'd recommend?

My Piece of Land and Down Fell the Doves are both excellent. Those are the ones that first got me hooked.

Thanks! I've got some long drives coming up, so it'll be perfect to load up on some of these.