Cass McCombs

Pairing cryptic lyrics with a dry, dusty style of singing, Cass McCombs is an indie-folk outsider who never tires of trying odd new points of engagement. Born in 1977 in Concord, California, he cut his teeth with assorted DIY bands during the 1990s. After making his solo debut with the 2002 EP Not the Way, McCombs hastened his output alongside his growing profile, releasing two albums—Wit’s End and Humor Risk—in 2011 alone. Without ever simplifying his sound, McCombs has continued to win acclaim while making counterintuitive moves. His 2022 album Heartmind features prog-worthy twists and cosmic jazz flourishes alongside guest vocals from country icon Wynonna Judd and open runs of breezy accessibility. A kindred spirit to Bill Callahan and Kevin Morby, he has continually helped to expand the concept of the singer/songwriter in the new millennium.