"We’re only halfway through 2016, and putting together a tidy list of Nashville’s best music releases this year — so far — is already proving to be an impossible task.

Of course, this is a good problem to have.

Over the past six months, listeners have been blessed with a variety of stellar albums originating from Music City. Not only are we hearing all sorts of sounds (country, rock, jazz and bluegrass, for starters), but they’re being made by artists at all points in their career: esteemed vets and modern superstars, as well as breakout sensations and hardworking songsmiths who’ve finally earned their due.

Sierra Hull, 'Weighted Mind' (Jan. 29)

Hull sheds the title of “bluegrass child prodigy” on her third album for roots label Rounder Records. Produced by banjo virtuoso Bela Fleck, “Weighted Mind” is a sparse and deeply personal acoustic album that showcases Hull’s ethereal soprano and deft instrumental work. Rhiannon Giddens, Abigail Washburn and Hull’s mentor Alison Krauss contribute gorgeous harmony vocals to the record as well."  --- J.T. - THE TENNESSEAN