Joe Ely | Love and Freedom Review

by Tom Faddis

Love and Freedom is Joe Ely’s 29th studio album, released on February 7, 2025. At 78, Ely continues to delve into themes of social justice, including immigration, poverty, and war. The album features a mix of original compositions and covers, all recorded at his home studio in Austin, Texas.

The album opens with “Shake’ Em Up,” featuring an organ part reminiscent of early ’60s Wild West themes. Ely’s vocals are well-suited to this alternative country-rock style with its catchy staccato melody.

“Adios Sweet Dreams” offers a Tex-Mex feel with lyrics addressing border issues in Texas. The accordion playing is excellent, and Ely’s singing and playing are spot-on for the style. “Magdalene,” a cover of Guy Clark’s song, features more stellar accordion and Ely’s balladry.

“Deportee (Plane Wreck at Los Gatos)” is a fine performance of Woody Guthrie’s song. Ryan Bingham’s contributing vocals add a new tone. Ely’s singing and guitar style brings an authentic Americana sound to the lyrics that address themes of immigration and social justice.

“Waiting Around to Die” is an upbeat cover of Townes Van Zandt’s classic, featuring Ely’s harmonica playing, emotive singing, and guitar strumming. “Sgt. Baylock” is a narrative song with a tempo and strumming pattern that will sound familiar to Country fans. The combination of talking and singing adds a new texture.

“Today It Did” switches gears to a country rocker with electric guitar parts from Guzman and a catchy Ely vocal performance. “Band of Angels” is a high desert cowboy track with Tejano accordion and acoustic guitar accents. This is raw, authentic music designed to pull on your emotions.

The songs on Love and Freedom began as ideas Ely taped over the years at his Spur Studios. Ely produced and played guitar, harmonica, and percussion on the album. Joel Guzman played accordion on the recording, and Lloyd Maines handled the production. Guitarist David Grissom (John Mellencamp, James McMurtry) also adds his touch to some of the songs.

Love and Freedom showcases Joe Ely’s enduring talent and relevance in the Americana and country music scenes, offering a blend of heartfelt storytelling and musical craftsmanship.