There’s a softness to Erin Rae’s voice that belies the cynicism of her lyrics. You could set her style up next to post-Rilo Kiley Jenny Lewis and Laura Marling to see some of the modern influences in the music you’ll hear on Putting On Airs. Going back further you’ll also find Joni Mitchell and Emmylou Harris in there as well. Maybe even a little Petula Clark and Dusty Springfield.

The album plays like an older country record when the line between folk, country, and R&B was starting to blend. If someone told me half the album was written by Johnny Mercer, I’d have to google it to make sure it wasn’t true (but not really).

Last month I was faced with a choice to post something about one of the singles from this album-either the title track or “Can’t Cut Loose.” I chose the title track because it has a better tempo and was a better introduction to Erin Rae’s music for people who hadn’t heard her previous two releases. I stand by my choice, though I think they’re both very good songs.

Recently, Erin was in Chicago opening a short run of shows for The Mountain Goats at Old Town School Of Folk Music. I wasn’t able to make it to any of those shows, and I’m having a hard time seeing the connection in the music. I enjoy each, but I don’t know if I’d like them together. She’s back in town this Friday for a late show at Schubas.

You can check out Putting On Airs on Spotify or Bandcamp and buy it on CD or vinyl here. For more info on Erin Rae, hit up her website.