Release (Bonus Track Version)

On Release, their seventh studio album, Sister Hazel makes it sound natural and easy. After 16 years together, and countless live shows, they’ve grown into such a tight unit that you almost take their solid song craft for granted, and fortunately the tunes come across as sincere rather than too formulaic. Their lyrics, which primarily deal with love and relationships, are pleasant if predictable but what really stands out is their ability to write solid compositions with catchy hooks, good harmonies, and grand, melodic choruses. Most of the songs here are mid-tempo rootsy numbers that feature crisp drumming and tasteful interplay between acoustic and electric guitars. They also toss in a few slow-burning ballads in “Better Way,” “See Me Beautiful,” and “One Life” that help the overall pacing of the album. In short, loyal Hazelnuts everywhere should eat this one up.