The fearless, enthralling new album from Queen Esther centers on the American Civil War, a peculiar choice even for one of the most distinctive Black artists in roots music. You likely haven‘t heard anything quite like Blackbirding. 

Released digitally on Feb. 6, the album could be labeled country-soul. In truth, the songs range from rustic gospel blues to galloping honky-tonk, gorgeous soul-shaking ballads, and 1970s-era rock ‘n roll. 

You know. American music. 

For the entire album, click here.