The Avett Brothers - I and Love and You

(Sony)

The Avett brothers Scott and Seth have been making music since 2000, but this is their major label debut. Produced by Rick Rubin, whose input guarantees a certain level of success, it’s an excellent collection of songs – an example of Americana hitmaking par excellence – even if it does lack the wayward, ragged charm of previous efforts.

The democratic split of vocal and songwriting responsibilities throws up a curious but entertaining amalgam of influences ranging from bluegrass and straight-up country to 60s beat pop and indie rock. The title track is superb: a gut-wrenching, dynamic piano ballad that hurts in all the right places.