Home is often where our stories begin, shaping who we are and where we’re headed. Yet, sometimes it’s only by leaving that we truly understand the weight of where we come from—and who we are beyond it. This paradox lies at the heart of 49 Winchester’s latest album, Leavin’ This Holler. In the title track, frontman Isaac Gibson captures this tension, singing, “Well, I hate to waste my time here / I ain’t got but so much left.” His raw, twangy voice, set against stark drums and moody strings, embodies the age-old struggle between staying put and seeking something more.
While the band has always been deeply connected to their roots in Castlewood, Virginia, Leavin’ This Holler shows them reaching beyond their hometown. Their 2022 album Fortune Favors the Bold marked a breakthrough for the group, solidifying their place in the Americana scene. Now, with this new release, they’re pushing even further, embracing a sense of freedom and adventure without forgetting where they come from.
From the first notes of the album, Leavin’ This Holler feels like an old friend—familiar, comforting, and full of hard-earned wisdom. Tracks like the upbeat opener “Favor” and the carefree “Hillbilly Happy” carry a simplicity that speaks to the joys of life’s small moments. Even love songs like the banjo-driven “Yearnin’ For You” and the dreamy “Fast Asleep” are striking in their straightforward, heartfelt honesty.
The album seamlessly moves between lighthearted and earnest, with each track offering a lesson or reminder. Whether it’s the cautionary tale of “Tulsa” or the empowering anthem “Make It Count,” every song has a clear purpose. Musically, 49 Winchester remains unconfined, blending sturdy country, gritty rock, and rich Americana with Appalachian influences. They venture into orchestral territory on the haunting “Anchor” and deliver spine-tingling gospel harmonies on the title track, featuring Maggie Antone.
Despite their growing fame, 49 Winchester stays true to themselves on Leavin’ This Holler. The album reflects a band that’s comfortable in their skin, more interested in personal fulfillment than chasing the spotlight. Every song is unpretentious, each message accessible. In a time when many are searching for direction, 49 Winchester offers something grounding, illuminating a path that feels a lot like home. – Jason Felton