Izaak Opatz

Add Date: January 12

Artist: Izaak Opatz

Album: Hot & Heavy-Handed

Label: Mama Bird

Genre: Country

Comments: Hot & Heavy-Handed is the new release from Izaak Opatz, who calls his music "dirtwave" (which he defines as "folk music with catchier clothes"). It's billed as a "pop-country covers record", but that label may not be accurate; while the Montana artist tackles hits from Dierks Bentley, Mark Chesnutt, and Tracy Lawrence, he also includes selections by the likes of Tom T. Hall, Lucinda Williams, and Roger Miller -- incredible songwriters, yes, but also folks who would proudly bristle at any kind of pop-country label -- as well as two originals. Hot & Heavy-Handed isn't likely to garner commercial country airplay anytime soon, but Opatz's sound would fit right in alongside modern country renegades like Orville Peck, Margo Price, and Sturgill Simpson.

Recommended Tracks: 11, 3, 1, 4

DNP: 6