Expanded Overview
Released in 2015, Something More Than Free by Jason Isbell continues the personal and introspective style he established in Southeastern (2013). The album explores themes of hard work, personal struggle, and self-reflection, blending Americana, folk, and rock influences. Isbell’s evocative storytelling shines on tracks like “24 Frames” and “Something More Than Free,” making this album a profound meditation on life’s complexities, from the mundane to the profound.
Critical Reception
The album received widespread critical acclaim, praised for its rich lyricism and emotional honesty. Isbell was lauded for continuing the deeply personal narrative style introduced in Southeastern. The album earned Isbell his first Grammy Awards for Best Americana Album and Best American Roots Song for “24 Frames.”
Career Context
Something More Than Free is Jason Isbell’s fifth studio album and followed the success of Southeastern, which marked a new chapter in his career after his recovery from addiction. While Southeastern dealt with deeply personal and emotional issues, Something More Than Free shifts focus toward themes of work, fulfillment, and daily struggles. This album helped Isbell solidify his reputation as one of the foremost songwriters in contemporary Americana.
Standout Tracks
- 24 Frames – A powerful meditation on life’s fragility, emphasizing how quickly everything can change.
- Something More Than Free – A reflection on the satisfaction that comes from hard work and personal freedom.
- If It Takes a Lifetime – A hopeful and optimistic take on perseverance through life’s challenges.
Overall Impact
Something More Than Free played a key role in cementing Isbell’s rise to prominence within the Americana and folk scenes. With its introspective lyrics and resonant themes, the album not only resonated with his established fan base but also brought him to a broader audience. It won Isbell his first Grammy Awards and is often considered one of the defining records of his career.
Discogs Link
Something More Than Free – Jason Isbell on Discogs
Jason Isbell
Jason Isbell is a Grammy-winning singer-songwriter and guitarist known for his introspective and heartfelt lyrics. He was a member of Drive-By Truckers before launching his successful solo career, and his work often explores themes of love, loss, and personal growth.
Similars
- Sturgill Simpson – Metamodern Sounds in Country Music
Simpson’s modern take on country music resonates with Isbell’s introspective storytelling. - Ryan Adams – Heartbreaker
Adams’ emotionally raw songwriting aligns with Isbell’s approach to deeply personal themes. - John Prine – The Tree of Forgiveness
Prine’s reflective and poetic songwriting pairs well with Isbell’s exploration of everyday life and struggles. - Wilco – Sky Blue Sky
Wilco’s blend of rock and folk, combined with introspective lyrics, mirrors Isbell’s stylistic approach.
Vinyl Edition Details – Something More Than Free by Jason Isbell
The vinyl edition of Something More Than Free, Discogs release code [r7249947], is a 2×LP set pressed on 180-gram vinyl, offering high-quality sound for fans and collectors. Packaged with a gatefold sleeve, it features detailed liner notes and full lyrics, enhancing the listening experience of this introspective album.
Key details about the vinyl pressing:
- Label: Southeastern Records
- Format: 2×LP, Album, 180g
- Release Year: 2015
- Country: USA
Tracklist:
Side A:
- If It Takes a Lifetime
- 24 Frames
- Flagship
- How to Forget
Side B:
- Children of Children
- The Life You Chose
- Something More Than Free
Side C:
- Speed Trap Town
- Hudson Commodore
- Palmetto Rose
Side D:
- To a Band That I Loved
Credits:
- Vocals, Guitar: Jason Isbell
- Producer: Dave Cobb
- Backing Vocals: Amanda Shires
Notable Features:
- 180-gram vinyl pressing for enhanced sound quality.
- Gatefold sleeve with complete lyrics and liner notes.