Grief is one of the most basic, most heart-wrenching human emotions, which is probably why readers related to Jim Pullman’s newest album, Go On Boldly, which acts as tribute to Pullman’s wife, Donna, and her mother, who passed away five years ago. Similarly, Namesake by Them Coulee Boys emenates vibes of nostalgia for the good ol’ days spent in the summer sun watching baseball. Dramatic Retellings of Mundane Happenings is more than a sappy album filled with love songs; it’s a love song for life, exploring how to stay positive amid dark times. — Rebecca Mennecke