Now is a good time to invest in banjos and accordions, what with the Lumineers, Mumford and Sons, the Avett Brothers and countless vest-wearing followers bringing old-timey folk music back into the fold, but don't accuse Bronze Radio Return of hitching their wagons to this dark horse of a trend. The sextet has been around since 2008, when they formed at the Hartt School of Music in Hartford, Conn., and last month, they dropped their third album, 'Up, On & Over.' Diffuser.fm is fascinated by the neo-folk thing, and in particular, we're curious what attracts young musicians to sounds that were popular when beards and overalls weren't affectations and pickling your own produce was a matter of survival. So we asked singer and guitarist Chris Henderson to share his five favorite Americana albums -- records that connect the past and present in ways not unlike Bronze Radio Return's music does. Check out his picks below -- then watch the band's new-fangled video for 'Further On.'

  • ATO
    ATO
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    Dawes

    'North Hills'

    This record feels very honest and remarkably genuine to me. Great songs, raw production and overall great vibe.

  • Rounder
    Rounder
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    Delta Spirit

    'Ode to Sunshine'

    This is one of my favorite albums of all times; between the flawlessly crafted songs and brilliantly executed production, I find myself hearing new things every time I listen to this record.

  • Fantasy
    Fantasy
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    Creedence Clearwater Revival

    'Chronicle'

    Everyone in our band grew up listening to CCR. I've learned so much from Fogertys approach to song writing and how he projects his voice when he sings.

  • Capitol
    Capitol
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    The Band

    'Rock of Ages'

    Listening to this record feels like getting a lesson  in how to play an incredible and expansive live show. I love the way everyone in the band sings together, and I love how they approach their instruments on an individual level.

  • Bloodshot
    Bloodshot
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    Ryan Adams

    'Heartbreaker'

    Ryan Adams knows how to write a song, and this disc in particular really show cases his craft. He is able to convey so much using so little and he always seems to pick the best words to tell his stories.

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