So disappointed in today's Americana


I make it a habit of getting the Grammy nominated Americana albums from the library each year. Past years have introduced me to much new music, some good, some bad, some treasures (TajMo for example). This year I just listened to Brandi Carlile's cd 'By the way I forgive you', nominated for best Americana roots album. OMG it is unlistenable! You would think singer / songwriters would strive for a pristine recording that highlights their lyrics and mostly acoustic arrangements. No - it is a sonic mess, compressed all to hell. To quote my wife "Turn that crap off". End of rant. 
mcondo
Have seen Rhiannon live with Carolina Chocolate Drops at City Winery. One of the best shows we saw that year!
Thanks for Chris Hillman. Then there’s David Crosby’s “Here if You Listen”. Tidal MQA
@OP You are spot on that this genre or category is weaker than it should be.

I can find few Americana artists worth passing on to others.    One I think is about the best I've heard in a long, long time is JS Ondara.  



I'm still not sure what constitutes "Americana" and I don't care much for folk music but if blues influenced music is part of that then check out Martin King out of Greenville, SC. If traditional R&B with an emphasis on the 'B' is Americana then check out Vintage Trouble out of L.A. and Leon Bridges from Texas.

Bridges is the real deal.