Buckner is one of the most heartfelt and honest songwriters you'll ever hear, and his first release on Merge (and sixth full-length) is a departure of sorts for this modern day troubadour. DENTS AND SHELLS adds some powerful elements with a few full band tracks framing Buckner's muscular lyrics and powerful voice. Following the storytelling and folk traditions of artists as diverse as Townes Van Zandt, Leonard Cohen, Nick Drake and Richard Thompson, Buckner's latest approach will have fans listening closely.