Nora Jane Struthers & the Party Line/David & Valerie Mayfield

It’s getting harder and harder to distinguish one “Americana” singer-songwriter from another these days. Put simply, the good ones just have to be good in that sort of visceral and, well, American way. Blessedly, Nora Jane Struthers has nailed the requirements on her first two albums -- 2014’s Carnival being a real gem -- and she’s poised to crest even higher with the February 2015 release of Wake, the first album with her band, the Party Line. “I've built my identity as artist on a foundation of traditional influences and narrative storytelling,” she tells NPR, and adds that this next album with be far more personal. Her voice is tremendous, and she’s proven capable of gathering great musicians around here. Check out “Bike Ride” from Carnival for a fine example of her sound -- and an excellent callback to more desirable, summery months. (Sandy)