Americana/Folk artist Ismay (Avery Hellman) was in a Lucinda Williams cover band started by their father early in her adult life. As a singer-songwriter herself, the musician, rancher and self-identified “dreamer” went looking for more understanding of the legendary singer-songwriter and produced an outstanding documentary called Finding Lucinda.
The film documents their journey of more self-discovery than anything else, but their interviews and path to learn more about Lucinda led them to understand Williams grew up the daughter of, and surrounded by poets. The result, besides the beautifully done film, was Hellman decided to learn to write poetry.
Those learnings and evolution in their artistry led to their next big project – a new album called Half Truth, due out June 12th on Fossil Records.
Frank and Falls chatted with Hellman about the film, Lucinda Williams, poetry, and the new album on this week’s episode of Roots Music Rambler. The trio also discussed Fossil Records, a new label co-founded by Hellman and friend of the show Margo Cilker (see Episode 35).
There was a lot to cover and unpack with Hellman’s journey and art. Give the full episode a watch or listen. You’ll enjoy it.
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Notes and links:
Finding Lucinda (film)
Ismay Online
Ismay on Spotify
Ismay on Instagram
David LaMotte on Spotify
Roots Music Rambler Episode 12 - Does Wilco Suck?
Fossil Records
Roots Music Rambler interview with Margo Cilker
The Roots Music Rambler Store
Roots Music Rambler on YouTube
Roots Music Rambler on Instagram
Roots Music Rambler on TikTok
Roots Music Rambler on Facebook
Jason Falls on Instagram
Jason Falls on TikTok
Francesca Folinazzo on Instagram
Pickin’ the Grinnin’ Choices
Charley Pride on Spotify
Kind Hearted Strangers on Spotify
Subscribe to Roots Music Rambler on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, GoodPods or wherever you get your podcasts.
Theme Music: Sheepskin & Beeswax by Genticorum; Copyright 2026 - Falls+Partners. All music on the program is licensed by ASCAP, BMI and SESAC. Roots Music Rambler is a member of the Americana Music Association.
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