Welcome back to Don’t Rock the Inbox. Here’s this week’s music recommendation post and playlist, which are for paying subscribers only. If you’re interested in paid content but not able to afford it, shoot us an email.

The Good

Everywhere Isn't Texas, August Ponthier: I first saw Ponthier at Brandi Carlile's Girls Just Wanna Weekend Festival in Mexico, and was immediately struck by their songwriting that captures this sort of restless southern identity where you feel completely like an alien and completely at home all at once. The whole album is terrific (wouldn't exactly describe it as country, though I wouldn't not), but I love the title track and accompanying video, that encapsulates that feeling of struggling to find your place - and discovering the people who make you feel whole again. When Ponthier says "everywhere isn't Texas," it's both a lament and a reassurance all at once. - MM

"He Sure Is Nice," Belle Frantz: When it comes to the tradcountry resurgence, a good bulk of what's out there has been resurrecting the 90s. This one is much more old school, waltzing and honkytonkin' with a wink and a smile. Excited for what's to come from this Frantz. - MM

"Little Rooms," Aubrie Sellers: A fun, twangy, slightly disturbing (in a good way) ditty about wanting to know everything that goes on in a lover's mind...and then realizing maybe some things are better left unsaid and undiscovered. Also love how to musical choices mirror the lyrics! - MM