Infamous Angel (1992)

With a voice that rings like an antique church bell, Iris DeMent delivered one of the most honest roots debuts of the 1990s. Infamous Angel draws on Ozark gospel, traditional country and front-parlour piano, but its spirit is thoroughly independent. Whether examining spiritual doubt in the philosophical classic 'Let the Mystery Be' or detailing the slow heartbreak of fading memories in 'Our Town', DeMent makes folk-country songwriting feel as elemental and refreshing as fresh well water.