Episode 182: To spotlight the 2021 AmericanaFest, returning after a year off, I reached out to two of the most interesting artists showcasing during the week. Sierra Ferrell is a rambling free spirit from West Virginia who found her way to Nashville and its new era honky tonk scene way off of Broadway. Rounder Records heard her arresting old-world voice and feel for songs and signed her to a deal, and her debut is remarkable. Live, she's a brilliantly energetic and unusual singer songwriter. From the other end of the country music spectrum comes newcomer Brittney Spencer, who deftly rides the line between the commercial mainstream and roots. From the Opry stage to the ACM Honors live broadcast, she's knocking Nashville out.