By: Emily J Ramey

Rating: 4.5 of 5 stars

Clawhammer banjo wonder Abigail Washburn has returned to her solo venture with stories to tell. After debuting with the sparse and haunting Songs of a Traveling Daughter in 2005 and sidetracking to produce a self-titled project with Abigail Washburn and The Sparrow Quartet in 2008, the 31-year-old Nashvillian is back with the luminous and expansive City of Refuge.

An old world instrumental “Prelude” opens the album with 52 seconds of balmy violins before the title track quickens the pace with tinkling notes, blooming into a graceful and unpredictable melody. The richly avant-garde “Ballad of Treason” is a zealous, flowing tune with elements of flourish and pomp characteristic of The Decemberists, probably a result of producer Tucker Martine, who is also known for his work with the indie folk band.

“Corner Girl” may be the most banjo-centric song on the album, Washburn’s Norah Jones-y vocals floating over a tinny refrain. “Dreams of Nectar” whispers delicately of Washburn’s affinity for Chinese culture, a track willowy and full. And the vividly traditional “Bright Morning Stars” closes the album with lithe strings and antiquated harmonies.

Abigail Washburn’s City of Refuge is bursting at the seams with understated talent and folksy splendor. It is a collection of winter songs looking toward to the warmth of spring and comes highly recommended by this chilly critic eager for sun.

Emily J Ramey is a burgeoning young music writer, living and working in Nashville, TN. Her background includes journalism classes at New York University and a Music Business degree from Belmont University. Check out her blog at listenerextraordinaire.wordpress.com.