Tom Russell

Last year’s Gunpowder Sunsets anthology only heightened anticipation for new originals from Southwest balladeer Tom Russell. Folk Hotel continues to distinguish what makes the 70-year-old Santa Fe resident a master songwriter: fascinating characters, quirky details, and sophisticated narrative structure. Russell’s 28th studio album, featuring contributions from locals Eliza Gilkyson and Augie Meyers, lovingly details his Texas exit via “Leaving El Paso.” – Kevin Curtin