Jason Isbell returns with his backing band, the 400 Unit to give us another well-crafted, beautifully written album. Over the years, Isbell has been through his share of trials and tribulations. His magnum opus, Southeastern, was a reflection of his newfound sobriety after leaving rehab and a collection of personal stories. Reunions is coming to grips with the person Isbell was 7 years ago by slowly forgiving himself and acknowledging his shortcomings. He’s less harsh on his past mistakes and Reunions feels like renewed vigor: coming to terms with his past self while simultaneously looking to the future. As always, Jason Isbell has a sincerity to his words that feel uniquely relatable and affirming.
Reunions is still very alt-country and Americana in the way we expect from Jason Isbell but emphasizes the acoustic instrumentals far more than previous albums. The detail in his songwriting is impeccable as always as his commentary feels emotional and poignant. His choruses are incredible in the way they are catchy while retaining his powerful songwriting. On “It Gets Easier”, Isbell recalls the pain of internalizing his emotions while the hook “It gets easier but it never gets easy” soars above. It’s a powerful message of the constant, day-to-day struggle with life. “Be Afraid” is an incredible straight rock song. The energy that Isbell and the 400 Unit bring here is contagious as the pumping drums and licks chug along with the battle cry of “Be afraid! Be very afraid! Do it anyway!” Isbell talks about his daughter on “Letting You Go” as he reminisces on raising her and thinking about their future together. Reunions is an album of maturity and reflection: as we come to terms with who we are, we also recognize that our risks and failures are what brought us here. The important people in Isbell’s life have helped him get here and he wants to acknowledge their part in helping him create a better future.
Reunions does have a few weak points however. The first song, “What I’ve Done to Help” is slightly too long clocking in at nearly 7 minutes. And there are some awkward mixing choices: some overpowering riffs or vocal reverb. However, these little missteps don’t detract from the album as a whole. Certainly, the stylistic choices and songwriting are near identical to their previous work. But at the same time, it works because Isbell is just so good at what he does. Reunions is another beautifully crafted album from Isbell and the 400 Unit. For the people who are stepping into a new chapter of their lives, Reunions is a perfect way to look to the past and future.
Must Listens: Be Afraid, It Gets Easier, Dreamsicle
