The best James McMurtry albums
4 records, ordered by how much they reward a first listen — not by chart position.
Start here
Childish Things
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1
Too Long in the Wasteland
1989
A blend of gritty storytelling and melodic folk-rock that captures the vastness and desolation of American life.
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2
Childish Things
2005
A tapestry of vivid storytelling woven into rootsy melodies, reflecting on American life with poignant insight.
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3
Complicated Game
2015
A rich tapestry of storytelling woven through intricate melodies and evocative country-folk instrumentation.
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4
Just Us Kids
2008
A blend of sharp storytelling and rootsy instrumentation captures the gritty essence of American life and its complexities.