Faye Webster

Released in 2017, Faye Webster's self-titled sophomore album serves as the definitive bridge between her early folk roots and the 'R&B-adjacent' indie pop sound that would later bring her international acclaim. Recorded after a brief stint at Belmont University and a return to her hometown of Atlanta, the album reflects a maturing artist finding her unique sonic vocabulary. The record is notable for its integration of pedal steel guitar, played by Pistol Annies' Dan Dugmore, which provides a mournful, liquid texture to Webster's minimalist arrangements. Critics noted the album's 'dry' production style, which emphasizes the intimacy of her vocals and the clarity of the instrumentation. While it maintains a singer-songwriter core, the subtle rhythmic influences of Atlanta's hip-hop scene begin to emerge in the drum pockets, a hallmark that would become more pronounced on later releases like Atlanta Millionaires Club. It stands as a pivotal moment in her discography, capturing a specific blend of Southern loneliness and urban cool.