Why you should care: While their debut 2006 effort "Ways Not to Lose" was a crossover success, the recent loss of their mother to illness has transformed their sophomore effort "Loaded" into an addictive palette of laments and laid-back high lonesome. From front to back, it's a throwback to the classic folk rock of yesteryear. The slow-burning opener "Lovin' Arms" will have you longing for the Band to reunite, while the electrified arpeggios of "Postcards From Hell" bounce like fireflies in the haze. The heroin crawl of the title tracks begs comparison to Cowboy Junkies, even as it carves out its own niche.
Verdict: The Wood Brothers' second effort is a flawless exercise in roots, rock and even reggae—on the bobbing gospel of "Sweet Angel," to be exact. Chris Wood's hushed turn at vocals on the poignant waltz "Don't Look Back" is a heartbreaker, and his brother's energized delivery on rockers like "Pray Enough" and "Walk Away" boasts a spirited, knowing comfort. The Wood Brothers know exactly what they are doing, and they are very good at it.
X-Factor: Martin and Medeski, of course, were also invited to the family affair. The former offered up his drums for the production, which, as before, was produced by the latter.
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