Martin Sexton - Mixtape of the Open Road (2015)

The album cover gives the false impression of this being an odds-'n'-sods set of lost songs. It’s actually another excellent studio album from an artist who grew his career one fan at a time busking on the streets of Boston. Traveling informs his observations, but it’s love that takes center stage. Martin Sexton adds a Tom Waits–like big beat for “Remember That Ride,” assembles a tight rock ’n’ roll combo for “Dandelion Days,” adds a slinky, bluesy groove on “Give It Up,” and captures a laid-back soul vibe on “I Believe in You.” But it always sounds like Sexton, a cult artist who deserves a wider audience.