Kentucky/D.C.’s These United States isn’t afraid to write epic southern-rock anthems with big hooks and soaring guitar solos - the kind of songs that quickly become the soundtrack to your life. Jesse Elliott’s fragile voice intensifies the mood of the album’s softer moments and keeps tracks like “I Want You to Keep Everything” from getting too wild. “Night and the Revolution” starts off slow with western-inspired pedal steel guitar playing before finally erupting into a burly Ace Frehley guitar lick about two minutes in. Everything Touches Everything is a good reminder that every album doesn’t have to be about making a bold creative statement. Sometimes you just need that carefree rock ‘n’ roll record for cruisin’ around town with friends or takin’ it easy at a kegger in the woods. - Benjamin Evans