The big surprise on Tom Russell’s new album isn’t his inspired addition of Calexico’s Joey Burns (guitars, bass), John Convertino (drums), and Jacob Valenzuela (trumpets) to lend rocker relevance to his roots music, it’s that rather than reinvent himself, Russell stays true to his vision. He delivers on all the things he does so well—soulful singing (with Gretchen Peters on harmony vocals), stick-to-the-heart melodies, and top-notch storytelling. Russell is first and foremost a superb writer: As he sings in the catchy “East of Woodstock, West of Vietnam” he has “learned to carve his song,” melding sharp insights, literary references, and apt metaphors (“when the mountains glow like mission wine”) that address large themes—immigration, love, blue-collar work—through the prism of well-drawn characters, most especially himself. Calexico’s fuller orchestration—horns, chimes, and percussion, supplemented by Barry Walsh on exquisite keyboards—adds unusual textures and exciting effects. But fans of acoustic guitar are sure to be disappointed by the departure of virtuoso Andrew Hardin, whose arrangements so aptly interpreted Russell’s music. Still, Burns and guest guitarist Nick Luka sensitively echo that sound­ with Southwestern stylings, flamenco fills, and mariachi flourishes. And guest guitarist Thad Beckman goes a long way to assuage guitar thirst on the stunning “Guadalupe,” one of many that hold up with Russell’s best. (Shout! Factory, shoutfactory.com)