Variety of styles, sounds makes album a hit

The 11 songs on Troy Campbell's second solo album, "American Breakdown," are as well-suited for a coffeehouse as for a honky-tonk. The sparse arrangements and dark lyrics are subtly compelling, and Campbell's knack for writing memorable melodies makes the material that much stronger.

A former frontman for the Austin, Texas-based rock group Loose Diamonds, Campbell serves up much of "American Breakdown" unplugged.

Credit must also go to producer Gurf Morlix, whose expressive but understated guitar work reinforces the reflective mood Campbell creates on this impressive set.