I’m a little disappointed in myself for ignoring this album for so long. In anticipation of his upcoming Halloween performance at the Tractor, I thought I’d give Micah P. Hinson’s new CD, Micah P. Hinson and the Opera Circuit, a fair chance in my daily rotation at work. Maybe it’s just that autumn mood, but man, I am now totally enamored with this record. It’s funny, I’ve never once read anyone compare Hinson’s songwriting, or even his voice, to that of Silver Jews frontman David Berman. But after spending some time with Hinson’s new one, the melancholy ballads on Bright Flight and the visceral poetry of American Water were the first things to come to mind. As with the best Silver Jews albums, Hinson takes heartbreaking moments of disappointment and crafts pensive and poignant alt-country tunes that really capture that dusty rustic essence of the South.

You can stream the entire album through the Jade Tree website, and Kurt B. Reighley gave Hinson a brief write up in this week’s Up & Coming. I’m a big fan of the record’s first track, “Seems Almost Impossible,” as its airy strings and cricket samples set a very delicate, back porch mood that carries through the entire album.

If you’re like me and can’t handle the boisterous Halloween crowds, the Tractor may just be the best place to sit, chill and drink away the wickedness. I guess costumes are pretty much built-in for Tractor patrons; with my best flannel shirt, padded vest and trucker cap, I’m going as the Asian Will Oldham.

Micah P. Hinson, Zera Marvel @ The Tractor Tavern, 10/31, 9PM