New albums from Nashville artists Peter Frampton and more

Nashville’s music scene is diverse, extending beyond its country music reputation to include rock, pop, and metal.
Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Peter Frampton released his first new album in 16 years, “Carry the Light.”
Other new releases include metal band Waxed’s “The Continental Way” and pop artist Book NOT Brooke’s debut “Dancer First.”
Country artists Bellah Mae and Rodney Atkins are both set to release new albums on May 29.

Nashville may be synonymous with country music but its musical roots and footprint extend far beyond the genre, spanning hip-hop, R&B, pop, rock and more.

Alongside country, the Music City’s R&B and heavy metal music scenes continue to thrive, while emerging pop artists and established musicians are increasingly drawn to Nashville’s creative community.

Here are five new albums from Nashville-based artists across a range of genres.

Rock star Peter Frampton’s ‘Carry the Light’

Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Peter Frampton released his first album of new material in 16 years on May 15. The 10-track project, “Carry the Light,” is an uplifting record true to its name. Frampton’s son, Julian Frampton, helped write and produce the album, making the project an especially personal one for the legendary guitarist and songwriter.

The album also features an impressive lineup of collaborators including Pat Bergeson, percussionist Eric Darken and vocalists Vicki Hampton, Angela Primm and Gale Mayes. It also features the Kristin Wilkinson Strings and a children’s choir conducted by David Wise and Laura Cooksey.

“Last year, my son came here every month from L.A. for two to three weeks, and we would spend that time finishing [songs] or writing something new, or whatever we needed to do for the record,” the Nashville-based rock star told The Nashville Scene. “It’s about, ‘Carry the light, and let’s not forget the past.'”

Waxed, ‘The Continental Way’

Nashville-based metal quintet Waxed released their label debut “The Continental Way” on April 3.

The band, made of lead singer Luc Richards, guitarists Davis Haley and Noel Richards, bassist Will Alley and drummer Ian Sundstrom, has built steady momentum over the last few years. They have opened for acts including Jack White, Converge, and Pigs Pigs Pigs Pigs Pigs Pigs Pigs. The new nine-track project blends modern metal with touches of punk and rock ‘n’ roll.

“The Continental Way” follows the band’s 2022 debut “Give Up” and “Idlewild” (2023), a split EP with respected local band Soot.

Book NOT Brooke’s debut pop album ‘Dancer First’

Nashville-based pop singer and cellist Book NOT Brooke released her debut album “Dancer First” on March 6. The 11-track progressive pop project showcases her distinctive sound and introspective songwriting.

Born Brooke Vespoli just outside of Cleveland, Ohio, Book NOT Brooke has built a name for herself with emotionally driven lyrics, dynamic performances and her distinctive use of cello throughout her music. The album further highlights Book NOT Brooke’s classical background paired with pop production.

Bellah Mae’s forthcoming album ‘Keep It Peachy’

Country pop artist Bellah Mae’s forthcoming EP, “Keep It Peachy,” is set to be released May 29. The Sony Music–signed singer was born in Solihull, England and trained as a classical soprano for more than 10 years. By the age of 18, she had already begun gaining traction in Nashville with guidance from Dolly Parton’s manager.

Produced by Brett Truitt, JANEVA, and Steven Solomon, the new six-song project, “Keep It Peachy,” reflects Mae’s positive outlook on life despite any circumstances. It features sharp songwriting that explores a range of emotions, from the excitement of young love and high standards to heartbreak, vulnerability, and personal strength.

Rodney Atkin’s upcoming ‘True South’

Curb Records multi-platinum country artist Rodney Atkins is set to release his new album “True South” on May 29. The 12-track record is his first studio album in seven years and offers a classic Southern sound inspired by the red clay and rolling hills of East Tennessee.

During the seven-year hiatus, Atkins watched his kids grow, deepened his love for his wife Rose Falcon, and reflected on small-town life. And all of these experiences helped shape the album. “True South” celebrates everyday moments, with songs about marriage, parenting, and family life with his three sons.