A jangly guitar over a tight rhythm section and The Innocent Bystanders kick off ‘Book of Life’ with one of the best Americana songs of the year. Only seconds in, Jessica LaFave’s tenor sax takes control, bridging to Kath Rogers lilting vocal; reminiscent of Susanna Hoffs. “No Place to Go” feels like Southern California, but never strays far from its roots.

The song sets the tone for the rest of the album with LaFave’s sax reigning in the exuberant Bystanders to perfect effect. Contemporaries, The Faux Paws, have justifiably received critical acclaim this year for their Americana sax mix on “She’s Not Looking For You.” It’s an enticing listen, but while the Paws bring the sound together on one track, the Bystanders make the combo work on all ten songs.

Rogers makes one other lead appearance, a slower track, “Cosmic Love,” where the sax soars to match the lofty vocals. LaFave and Rogers nail the feeling on this song of boundless love.

Debbie Darroch gets the lead on “Dawning of the Day,” smoothly blending modern folk with doo wop/sixties girl group-like vocals. Clearly the Bystanders have chosen their influences wisely from an extensive record collection.

Ben Nieberg handles the vocals on the remaining tracks. He brings a big voice to the mix, yet the underlying driving rhythms—courtesy of Steve Berenson and Donnie Samporna—overlaid with sax neatly reign in the sound and carry the day. “This Train,” “Rainy Sunday,” and “Call of the Wild” are particular standouts that amp up the sax to a Muscle Shoals vibe. The title track brings soaring vocals by Nieberg to The Bystanders sound with a song of one who’s gone too soon. Here the lyrics invite the listener to wonder who this album might be dedicated to.

The aptly titled album explores life, love, loss and death. Nor do The Bystanders don’t shy away from today’s divisive political hate. With the vitriolic “Sunshine Party,” a take-down of the Evangelical/Republican/Trump alliance. Here, the vocals boil over and overwhelm the song, but I certainly understand the passion.

‘Book of Life’ is roots rock at its best. It’s a rare album today that you want to play from beginning to end, but that’s what The Innocent Bystanders have given us. Put it on repeat and the record will improve your mood every time.