Learning to Bend Ben Sollee Singer-songwriter-cellist Ben Sollee, 24, is at the beginning of what promises to be a very interesting American roots music career. Yes, you read that right—“cellist” and “roots music” in the same sentence. You hear “cello” and you think chamber music?

Life Death Love and Freedom, John Mellencamp (Hear Music, 2008)

Carrie Newcomer (Rounder, 2008) Back when I used to sort my CDs into categories (back when I still bought CDs), one section was devoted to inspirational female artists whose lyrics spoke to my life’s experiences. Too bad I didn’t know about Carrie Newcomer back then. She would have fit in perfectly with the Indigo Girls, Alanis Morissette, and Dar Williams.

Kathy Mattea (R.E.D. Distribution, 2008) Kathy Mattea has always been an odd country music star. She's an environmental activist in a genre that often glorifies gas-guzzling trucks. She's a classically trained singer with folk leanings in a business now dominated by simplistic pop-rock.

Steve Earle (New West, 2007)Steve Earle is, without question, the most overtly political artist in American popular culture. For a long time his activism (and songwriting) focused on his opposition to the death penalty.

Drive-By Truckers (New West, 2008) As a thoroughly hip Southern rock band in the 21st century, the Drive-By Truckers are either an oxymoron or a paradox. Start with their new album title. You might think, “A rock band with a poetic streak.” And you’re right. But that lofty phrase occurs as a description of Las Vegas at night.