Here’s some the best Americana and roots-type music releases for May 22nd, 2026. Click the artist or album links to find out more. The artist’s names link to their websites and the CD title links go to either Amazon, iTunes, Bandcamp or the artist’s site for ordering or downloading. A + sign means although not a featured release, it’s a notable album that’s still worth checking out. Also, this page will be updated as I find out about other new releases so check back again.
The Deslondes
Don’t Let It Die: Vol. 1 (New West Records)
The 12-track set was recorded on analog tape and features renditions of songs by Swamp Dogg, Shelby Lynne, Johnny Cash and Clifton Chenier and others. Each band member brought in a handful of songs to consider. Lead singer Sam Doores said, “It wasn’t planned, but we definitely gravitated toward songs that felt relevant to the times we’re in right now. And that’s something I truly love about our band.” The record features new interpretations of old songs by artists who’ve guided the band for years, alongside new songs by peers, tourmates and collaborators including Nick Woods and Pat Reedy. Band member Riley Downing said, “These songs are very much a close part of our lives. They’re all part of our circle, this big organism that keeps influencing itself.” (edited from Country Standard review)
Marley’s Ghost
Honky Tonk (Sage Arts Records)
This album is a bit retro sounding but in a sophisticated, sincere way. The instrumentation is captured with clarity & the various vocals are impressive. There are 14 dives into these spirited classics penned by the likes of Hank Williams, Waylon Jennings, George Jones, Merle Haggard & Mel Tillis. Produced by Larry Campbell, the rousing American spirit melodies flow from the speakers like honey off a spoon on Honky Tonk, their first album in 7 years. There are some old-world classic country & western glimmers that may or may not find favor with younger ears, but the tradition isn’t hokum or novelty. These are deep-rooted country tunes that even jazz great Charlie Parker loved & told a doubting musician beside him at the jukebox to “Listen to the stories, man, listen to the stories.” (edited from Americana Highways review)
Also new this week…
Corey Arceneaux & The Zydeco Fusion Band – Accordion Man (self-release)
Ben Chapman – Feet on Fire (Hippie Shack Records)
Thomas Csorba – Tender Country (Missing Piece Records)
Alena Diane – Who’s Keeping Time? (Fluff & Gravy Records)
Steep Canyon Rangers – Next Act (Yep Roc Records) +
Coming out soon… Willie Nelson, Bill Kirchen, Joshua Ray Walker, Jesse and Noah, The Two Tracks, Caleb Caudle, Grey DeLisle and Les Greene, John R. Miller, Breakfield, The Red Clay Strays, Charlie Marie, Jason Eady, Old Crow Medicine Show, Bella White, Maya de Vitry, Rodney Crowell, Corb Lund, Tift Merritt and more!
Bill FraterGrey DeLisle and powerhouse soul vocalist Les Greene
Ryan Bingham feat. The Texas Gentlemen
Teddy Thompson
India Ramey
Whitehorse
Kacey Musgraves
The Milk Carton Kids
Yarn
Dirk Powell
Benjamin Tod
Paul Cauthen
Charley Crockett
Luke Winslow-King
Leah Blevins






