Kim Richey

Wreck Your WheelsLojinx Records ****

Kim Richey is a class act who, over 15 years, has quietly but consistently stretched beyond her Americana comfort zone. A late bloomer, the 53-year-old from Zanesville, Ohio, was originally a teacher before she sought a different audience.

Wreck Your Wheels

is her sixth album, and the 11 songs are the fruit of collaborations with the likes of Will Kimbrough and Boo Hewerdine, among others. The result is something of a mishmash of styles, from the adult pop of the title track to the sultry blues of

For a While

, though a rich strain of regret- filled reflections runs through her lyrics. Richey’s band and producer (Neilson Hubbard) serve her well with warm and imaginative playing, while her own mellow, husky voice is a pleasure – not least on the moody recall of

When the Circus Comes to Town

and the folky

In the Years to Come

. See kimrichey.com

Download tracks: For a While, When the Circus Comes to Town, In the Years to Come