Come On In (United For Opportunity, 2010)

Every review of Yarn's latest, "Come On In," appears obligated to mention the contrast between the band's rustic Americana sound and its hipster Brooklyn origins. But no one should be surprised: What city embodies the uniquely American feeling of isolation despite success better than New York? After a bad break-up, the feelings are the same whether you wander into a deserted Southern dive bar or a bustling lounge in lower Manhattan.

The album's lyrics are built around this isolation, with song titles such as Alone On the Weekend and Down On Your Luck. But in another pleasant contrast, the notes are generally upbeat. The album is more likely to inspire sunny afternoon drives than teary drinking alone.

Lead vocalist Blake Christiana's voice has a familiarity to it and blends nicely with the band's use of guitar, mandolin, harmonica, bass and drums. New York City Found is especially worth a listen for its smile-inducing fiddle and bass solos. Other enjoyable tracks are the opening Alone On the Weekend, mournful Time Burns On. The album lags a bit in the middle with Abilene and Yodelay, which are still worthy of the album, but come off a bit bland.

And no matter what part of the country - or world - you're from, if you love good folk music, you'll likely find something welcoming on "Come On In."