Essential albums

To celebrate a great year in music, we present our annual unranked list of outstanding and essential albums in Americana for 2022. From epic double and triple-length masterworks to subdued and contemplative folk projects, we heard the variety and commitment to excellence we've come to expect from the roots music community. Picks and commentary by our music journalist Craig Havighurst.

Thanks to all the WMOT listeners who voted for their favorite albums played on WMOT in 2020! Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit/ReunionsMargo Price/That's How…

In a year bereft of most live music, recordings took on added import and resonance. I upgraded my home stereo in February, unaware that I’d be spending…

It shouldn’t take a shelter-at-home order to indulge in your hi-fi, but with the venues quiet (for now), it’s an ideal time to sit still with your best…

Unlike some year-end album lists, mine shies away from ranked order or making claims on “best” because I want it to feel more like the way a music fan…