Alt-country singer-songwriter Jason Isbell is riding a wave of critical and commercial success into his one-night-only gig at the State Theatre in Eau Claire Nov. 13. The artist, a former member of Drive-By Truckers, is celebrating the release of his fifth solo studio album, Something More Than Free. The disc has received acclaim from sources such as NPR, RollingStone.com, Pitchfork, and Stereogum for its complex, heartfelt expressions and classic songwriting. Something More Than Free debuted last summer atop the country, rock, and folk charts. “Navigating between crestfallen country ballads and rollicking rockers, Something More Than Free showcases Isbell’s musical diversity without sacrificing a pinch of lyrical precision,” wrote music blog Consequences of Sound. Isbell’s voice is often described as supple and hushed but piercing, a sound that complements the rustic twang of the fiddles and piano of his music, creating the deep force of a raging confessional. Isbell will be sharing the stage with special guest Elizabeth Cook. Welder, Cook’s most recent album, was ranked as one fo the 25 best albums of 2010 by Rolling Stone. The artist’s twangy vocal harmonies complement the rolling and tumbling tunes of her catchy country hits. With influences from rock and punk, as well as bluegrass and rockabilly, Cook’s sharply penned lyrics demonstrate the possible diversities of country music.

Jason Isbell + Elizabeth Cook • Friday, Nov. 13, 7:30pm • The State Theatre, 316 Eau Claire St., Eau Claire • $39.50-$49.50 • (715) 832-2787 • eauclairearts.com