What’s on my ear radar this first weekend of February? A stack of Americana Awesome – that’s what!

Josh Ritter tears the wrapping off this weekend’s Mixtape. Brand new stuff from him this week – “Old Black Magic” is the name. Josh’s new album Fever Breaks will break out in April and was produced by Flatland Favorite Jason Isbell. “Old Black Magic” features chugging guitars and Josh’s smooth vocals. The 400 Unit Force is strong in this one.

The three talented ladies of I’m With Her have released “Call My Name” and it is ethereal. The harmonies connect and take you on a smooth walk through your day…

You won’t find music much fresher than The Lonely Heartstring Band’s latest. The album Smoke and Ashes just dropped and I’m really enjoying the direction they’ve taken. “Reverie” mashes musical metaphors and brings a new feel, while keeping you comfortable. The atmosphere of the strings feels almost North African at times and the keys at the beginning haunt…explore it yourself and let me know what you think in the comments!

As you get to know me, you’ll find I love the Vandoliers – their new album Forever is set to come out February 22nd. I can’t get enough of their single “Cigarettes In the Rain”. Equal parts raw and smooth, their real oozes from this tune. Thanks to them for bringing the Mixtape to a new level!

I’m finding my way through the catalog of Mandolin Orange and one of their latest has demanded a spot in the Mixtape. “Golden Embers” is a touching tale of loss and honored remembrance. Guitar strums and fiddle strings show me through the life of someone reaching to showcase the love they have for one who has passed. It’s a feeling we’ve all had – and will have again. “Golden Embers” will lend us an arm to lean on when we need it.

Have to leave the Mixtape on a fun note – jump in the time machine with me, I’ve set it for 1978 and we’re going to have a good time with Grand Canyon. “Standing In the Shadows” hearkens back to that golden time with a feel that would fit right in on your Firebird’s Pioneer stereo. It’s easier and easier for me to get nostalgic and while I couldn’t drive in ’78, if I could have, I would have cranked this one up. The organ solidifies it’s sound for me. Great visuals in the video, too!

Hope you love the Mixtape this weekend – we’ll do it every weekend right here at americanaflatlands.com. Don’t miss it! Leave any comments you have and we can share notes!