Tim Easton/Brent Kirby

In a career that stretches back a good decade, singer-songwriter Tim Easton has always been on the verge of breaking big. His 2009 album, Porcupine, won a couple of Independent Music Awards. With his forthcoming album, Not Cool, which he recorded in a mere five days, Easton returned to his roots and drops the alt from his alt-country sound to embrace an old school country vibe. He delves into rockabilly on the Blasters-like "Don't Lie" and embraces old-time country on the rollicking "Troubled Times." The wordy "Tired and Hungry" is a fantastic approximation of Bob Dylan. Easton's sneering vocals sound sharper than ever on this terrific outing. (Niesel)