Country music has always been a genre rooted in storytelling, raw emotion, and a connection to everyday life. Recently, Oliver Anthony, the breakout artist behind the viral hit “Rich Men North of Richmond,” has stirred the pot with his unfiltered take on the state of modern country music. He’s called out the industry for drifting too far from its roots, favoring polished production over grit and authenticity. His words have resonated with fans who crave music that speaks to the heart rather than the charts. If you’re nodding along to Anthony’s hot take, you’re likely on the hunt for artists who still carry the torch of genuine, soul-stirring sound. Enter the world of Americana—a genre that blends country, folk, and roots music into something timeless yet fresh. Here are three standout Americana bands that deserve your attention.
First up is The Steel Wheels, a Virginia-based outfit that’s been quietly building a loyal following with their honest lyrics and rustic instrumentation. This band leans heavily into the traditions of Appalachian music, weaving banjo, fiddle, and tight harmonies into songs that feel like they could’ve been written on a front porch a century ago. Their latest album, Sideways, digs into themes of resilience and rural life—topics that would likely strike a chord with Anthony’s own ethos. Tracks like “Hero” showcase their ability to balance melancholy with hope, while their live performances bring an energy that’s both intimate and electrifying. The Steel Wheels aren’t chasing Nashville’s glitz; they’re crafting music that’s real, unpretentious, and deeply rooted in the American experience.
Next on the list is The Lone Bellow, a trio whose soulful sound and emotional depth make them a must-listen for anyone disillusioned with country’s mainstream turn. Hailing from Brooklyn but steeped in Southern influences, their music blends gospel, folk, and a touch of twang into a rich, heartfelt stew. Their breakout hit, “Then Came the Morning,” is a soaring anthem of redemption that could easily sit alongside Anthony’s own protest songs. What sets The Lone Bellow apart is their willingness to bare it all—lyrics about love, loss, and longing hit hard, backed by soaring harmonies and sparse, evocative arrangements. Their recent work, like the single “Gold,” keeps that raw edge while exploring new sonic territory. For fans of Anthony’s no-nonsense style, this band offers a refreshing dose of authenticity wrapped in a slightly modern package.
Rounding out the trio is The Wood Brothers, a group that effortlessly fuses country, blues, and folk into a sound that’s as warm as a campfire on a chilly night. With Oliver Wood’s gritty vocals and Chris Wood’s masterful upright bass, the band brings a lived-in feel to every note. Their catalog is packed with gems like “Luckiest Man,” a tender ode to gratitude, and “The Muse,” which channels a backwoods vibe with poetic flair. What makes The Wood Brothers so compelling is their refusal to overproduce—each song feels organic, like it’s being played live in your living room. Their latest release, Heart is the Hero, doubles down on this approach, stripping things back to let the stories shine. If Oliver Anthony’s call for realness in country music speaks to you, The Wood Brothers deliver it in spades.
These three bands—The Steel Wheels, The Lone Bellow, and The Wood Brothers—prove that the spirit of authentic storytelling in music is alive and well. They sidestep the slick, radio-ready formulas that Anthony has railed against, opting instead for sounds that echo the struggles and joys of everyday folks. Americana as a genre has always been a haven for artists who prioritize substance over flash, and these acts are carrying that torch into 2025 with bold, unapologetic voices. Whether you’re drawn to the mountain melodies of The Steel Wheels, the soul-baring intensity of The Lone Bellow, or the earthy grooves of The Wood Brothers, there’s something here to satisfy your craving for music with a pulse. So, if you’re in Oliver Anthony’s corner, give these bands a spin. They just might be the soundtrack to your next late-night drive or quiet moment of reflection.