Amos Lee

It’s one thing when a singer embraces the innocuous as a blatantly enduring code, and another when it just seems pitted against a bunch of quality attributes and a good-hearted persona. Philadelphia native Amos Lee often falls on the latter side, to both frustrating and redeeming effect. The blues-edged “Truth” and “Street Corner Preacher,” both from 2008’s Last Days At The Lodge, prove he doesn’t want to carelessly throw himself to the wolves of blandness, despite his often soft touch. Even when they get their teeth in, it’s hard not to root for Lee’s voice, which reconciles smoothness and warmth. Lee’s elements come together in more distinctive ways on this year's Mission Bell, with the help of backing-band Calexico and collaborations with Sam Beam, Willie Nelson, Lucinda Williams, and others.

Updated 10/18/2011