From deep in inland Alabama comes a talent so effortless and sincere that it is a wonder why the big wigs didn't jump on him sooner. John Paul White, who has recently signed with mega-label Capitol Records, relies mostly on his acoustic guitar to build his songs - but has no problems dressing them up with melodic electric guitar lines. I know I'm always pulling the dramatics out of my hat, but these songs really are achingly beautiful. I hope you'll hear more from JPW in the future as he records his new disc for Capitol. He was excited about me wanting to share two tracks from the demo I had him send, and I hope you'll be just as excited to hear them. - Lizzy Mineapolis

John Paul White also comprised one-half of The Civil Wars along with Joy Williams.