For nearly two decades, Willie Watson has made modern folk music rooted in older traditions, bridging the gap between the past and present. With a quick vibrato and rich range, he breathes new life into classics like “Samson and Delilah” and “Gallows Pole,” passing along his own version of the music that came long before him.

Arriving three years after Folksinger Vol. 1 (his first release since parting ways with the Old Crow Medicine Show, whose platinum-selling music helped jumpstart the 21st century folk revival), Folksinger Vol. 2 breaks new ground for Watson’s artistry. Featuring flavors of southern gospel, railroad songs, delta blues, Irish fiddle tunes, and Appalachian music, Folksinger Vol. 2 makes room for it all. Produced by David Rawlings and featuring folk legends such as Gillian Welch, the Punch Brothers’ Paul Kowert, and Old Crow bandmate Morgan Jahnig, Watson expands his sound while consolidating his strengths.

Nodding to the past without resurrecting it, he turns modern folk into something much more than an interpretation of older songs. His music carries on the spirit of a time nearly forgotten. It taps into the rich core of roots music and furthers the legacy of American folk, all while showcasing the full range of Watson’s talents with songs that have shaped not only a genre, but an entire country.

Nat Myers is a Kentucky roots and blues musician, performing original and standards from now to the early 20th century.