8/10

Throughout her tenure, US artist Courtney Marie Andrews has always been one to find a far more accessible side to the country sound. While much of her formative material remained largely unappreciated, barely breaking out of her comfortable niche, her run of form of late has seen her reach an international appreciation for her work, culminating in her most highly-praised LP 'Old Flowers' in 2020. And now after just a couple of years to figure out her next move, she has returned to deliver her eagerly-awaited eighth studio album 'Loose Future', a record that sees her continue her vibrant ascent.

While she remains just as committed to the country aesthetic as she always has, 'Loose Future' sees her embark on a more folk-inspired direction, channelling the broad and sprawling influences of her heroes Bob Dylan and Joni Mitchell from start to finish. This beautifully lucid and adventurous direction she has built for herself is one again put through its paces throughout this new collection as Andrews maintains a brilliant engaging atmosphere that offers up some wonderfully rich and inviting textures as it plays.

Although not much has changed sonically for her since her last release, 'Loose Future' still manages to unveil some sweet and tender moments that really elevate its presence. Never one to rally through the cliches, Courtney Marie Andrews has once again delivered a magical and illustrious offering here.