Hailey Whitters - Corn Queen (2LP)

Facts Country songstress Hailey Whitters has long been recognized as a master craftswoman, but Corn Queen, her highly anticipated fourth album, solidifies her status as a genuine star, one with the wisdom - and the guts - to trust her instincts as she blazes her own singular trail through the industry. Recorded once again in Nashville with longtime collaborator (and now-husband) Jake Gear, the collection is a rousing reflection on Whitters' midwestern roots and the joys and struggles of small-town living. The writing is whip smart, full of clever wordplay and evocative storytelling, and the performances are utterly intoxicating, walking the line between classic and contemporary country with a healthy dose of bluegrass energy thrown in for good measure.