Edwin McCain is one of those artists who gets progressively better the more he releases.

With the release of his latest album, “The Austin Sessions,” he makes it clear why he will be around the music scene for a long time to come.

McCain’s sixth release is a perfect mix of new and old songs and even a few songs with a bit of a rootsy-like twist. The album is a mix of acoustic guitar and McCain’s strong voice.

After hearing records like this, it becomes clear why some singers make it in the business today, while most don’t. In McCain’s case, it’s a combination of a deep, pulsing voice that can send shivers down your spine and his amazing guitar playing. He ties together a unique modern-rock flair that separates him from the pack of most folk rock artists. Besides having incredible talent, McCain tells us stories while he sings, opening up his world to anyone willing to listen.

“We’ve had people asking for this record for a long time,” McCain said on his Web site (www.edwin.com). “The core group of people that like what I do have always said they want an all-acoustic album, so here we go. It’s real loose and it’s not overproduced. I didn’t redo the vocals, they just are what they are.”

“The Austin Sessions” not only has a few new songs, but it also has covers of songs that he plays during his concerts. He chose the songs to use with the help of fans.

The best track on the album is the song “I Want it All,” a sweet song about unconditional love. McCain’s lyrics are extremely touching and emotional, making this an incredible track.

“Let it Slide” displays McCain’s southern roots with a country sound. The song has a sound reminiscent of something you would hear on a Dixie Chicks album. He also covers the Buddy Mondlock song “No Choice.” The song will make you feel like you should be sitting around a campfire singing along.

Another key song on the album is “Go Be Young.” It previously was featured on McCain’s 1999 release “Messenger.” It is a riveting ballad about a woman getting older and regretfully drowning her sorrows with alcohol.

Track after track, “The Austin Sessions” is an amazing album. Edwin McCain is sure to be around for a while if he keeps releasing albums like this.