This Madison country-folk band formerly known as Box Elder thrives on the strong lead vocals of Adrienne Cole. Cole and Dan O'Brien have shared songwriting duties since the band formed in 2005. Given their considerably different approaches to composition, Box Elder sometimes struggled to be cohesive.
This time out, Dear August make the smart choice of giving Cole plenty of room to shine, and she responds by branding this album with an easygoing, rustic charm. Ten of the 12 tracks are hers. The songs vary in tempo, and the upbeat ones like "Feedman" suit Dear August's style the best.
Dear August are one of the best country-influenced bands in Madison, and Come In, Keep Dry makes the case.