Go down the rabbit hole... The latest entry in Numero Group's Wayfaring Strangers series shines light on obscure and forgotten private press gems of the "Cosmic American" variety. You might be wondering "what is Cosmic American?" Country rock singer Gram Parsons coined the term when describing his own hybrid of country, r&b, soul, and folk rock and this combination of styles, laced with a touch (or more) of psychedelia, is what ties the tracks together on this excellent compilation. Not one of the artists featured here ever made it into the mainstream and are hardly familiar, but each took their own windy musical path to arrive at the unmistakable "Cosmic American" vibe. Includes tracks from Arrogance, Jeff Cowell, The Black Canyon Gang, White Cloud, Doug Firebaugh, and many other artists you've never heard of. Double vinyl pressing with gatefold sleeve and extensive liner notes.

• 'astro spangled' red & blue colored double vinyl pressing
• housed in deluxe tip-on gatefold sleeve w/ liner notes
• includes mini booklet containing photos, album art + artist bios
• limited edition
• music label: Numero Group 2023

reviewed by Hank Oh 04/2016