Heartbreak and Booty Shake

Mary Chapin Carpenter may be best known for her recording of Lucinda Williams’ “Passionate Kisses” – a lighthearted, somewhat hopeful tune about love and fidelity. But more than two decades into her career, the singer-songwriter is unafraid of tearing into life’s darker sides. Reviewer Don McLeese calls her new record “bleak,” but in the good way, it would seem. That same bleakness echoes out in the latest from Nate Currin. But if you’re looking for something a little more light – something that might make you want to get up and shake it – perhaps the latest from the Jayhawks will do, or some rock, blues, and funk from Strange Majik. Something for everyone this week.