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Grace Potter and the Nocturnals

Who? The rural Vermont-based band — which began in 2002 when Potter met drummer Matthew Burr at St. Lawrence University in upstate New York, and now includes Scott Tournet (lead guitar, vocals, harmonica) and Bryan Dondero (upright/electric bass) — unveils its second self-recorded effort, Nothing But the Water.

What’s the Deal? The band intended to make the album sound like it was recorded in 1973, and with its organic, back-to-the-land vibe, Nothing But the Water overflows with nostalgic emotion. Soul, blues, funk, and roots rock combine on the album to give it a laid-back, back porch attitude, while Potter’s smoky vocals bring the energy. The two-part title track has an a cappella gospel intro, but finishes with Potter behind her pulpit of choice (her Hammond B-3) and backed by her band, who provide a surge of southern-spiced rock.

Fun Fact: Nothing But the Water was recorded in one week in the Haybarn Theatre, which was built in 1868, on a college campus in Vermont. ALYSSA RASHBAUM

Now Hear This: Grace Potter and the Nocturnals – “Treat Me Right” (Download MP3)

Talk: Is Grace Potter and the Nocturnals’ sound sweetly nostalgic or unfortunately dated? COMMENT

On the Web: gracepotter.com