Listen Up: Notable new releases

Robert Ellis, The Lights from the Chemical Plant
Americana
* * * stars out of four

The Texan draws from pop and rock on this rootsy set that honors tradition while paving fresh paths. His graceful tales of isolation brim with exquisite melodies and surprises. -- Edna Gundersen

Download: Bottle of Wine, Houston, Sing Along

Dianne Reeves, Beautiful Life
Jazz/R&B
* * *

On Reeves' latest, her exquisitely textured voice caresses both original tunes and covers ranging from Harold Arlen to Stevie Nicks. The many notable guests include Esperanza Spalding, who wrote Wild Rose for Reeves. -- Elysa Gardner

Download: Feels So Good (Lifted), Waiting in Vain

Frankie Ballard, Sunshine & Whiskey
Country
* * 1/2

Ballard's debut starts like many country albums, all wild times and girls who remind him of booze. But he's got an appealing rock delivery, and the songs get more thoughtful as he goes along, right to the tragedy at the end. -- Brian Mansfield

Download: Helluva Life, Don't Tell Mama I Was Drinking