The gifted Cass McCombs is often viewed as a modern example of the traditional singer-songwriter, but he’s also capable of heading off in plenty of other interesting directions when he thinks nobody’s paying close attention. Ranging from 2003 to 2014, the aptly named A Folk Set Apart: Rarities, B-Sides & Space Junk, Etc. collects stray 7″ singles, outtakes, and other marginalia that underscores his versatility with an intriguing mix of buoyant power pop, rowdy punk-rock, bluesy raveups, and even a whimsical guitar instrumental. Highlights include “Bradley Manning,” a brooding protest ballad, and the breathtaking dreamscape “Minimum Wage.” More than the throwaway it might seem at first, this is one of McCombs’ best albums, which is saying something.
