Closer Than Together

Released in 2019, Closer Than Together represents a pivot toward overt social and political commentary for the North Carolina-based Avett Brothers. Produced by Rick Rubin, the album moves away from the high-energy 'punk-grass' of their early career in favor of a more refined, adult-contemporary Americana sound. The record is notable for tracks like 'We Americans' and 'Bang Bang,' which address systemic racism and gun violence respectively, marking a departure from their traditionally personal lyrical focus. Critics noted the album's earnestness, with some praising the band's willingness to tackle difficult subjects while others felt the messaging was occasionally heavy-handed. Musically, it incorporates more prominent piano and orchestral strings than previous efforts, resulting in a sound that is more 'chamber folk' than 'bluegrass.' It stands as a document of a band using their platform to reflect their environment during a period of intense national division.