Sign up now for Deals, Gear Reviews, and More

The MME Guitar Newsletter

View our privacy policy and terms

10am-6pm Mon-Friday / 10am-5pm Saturday ET

NEW Iris Dement-The Way I Should (30th Anniversary)-LP RSD

$28.99
Available in store: Check availability
1 in stock

Available in store

Close
On its way to you today! Most orders ship SAME DAY if order placed by 2:00pm ET, Monday-Friday
Free same day pickup! Buy online, pick up in store. Easy!

Brand New still sealed!

The Way I Should (30th Anniversary) (IEX) Summer Sky
(RSD Exclusive, Colored Vinyl, Gatefold LP Jacket)
Artist: Iris DeMent Format: LP Release Date: 4/18/2026
Label: Yep Roc Records
Vendor: Redeye Distribution
Distributor: AMPED
UPC: 634457208391
Genre: Country
Release Date: 4/18/2026

Description
With The Way I Should, Iris DeMent stepped boldly into new territory, delivering a collection that balanced her fierce lyrical conviction with tender vulnerability. Released in 1996, this third studio album from the revered Americana singer-songwriter expanded on her folk and country roots, blending sharp political commentary with deeply personal storytelling.

Backed by a fuller, more contemporary sound and featuring collaborations with legends like Delbert McClinton and Mark Knopfler, DeMent doesn't shy away from weighty topics. From government corruption ("Wasteland of the Free") to working-class struggle ("Quality Time"), she gives voice to the disillusioned with searing honesty and soulful grit. Merle Haggard lends his iconic vocals to "This Kind of Happy," bringing a warm, lived-in authenticity that deepens the album's emotional core. Yet for all it's pointed critique, The Way I Should is just as powerful in it's quieter moments. Songs like "When My Mornin' Comes Around" and "Keep Me God" shimmer with grace, hope, and an unwavering moral compass. DeMent's unmistakable voice anchors every track with a sense of authenticity that's rare and resonant. The Way I Should isn't just an artistic evolution; it's a fearless statement from a singular voice in American music. Timeless in message and rich in heart, it remains one of DeMent's most compelling and relevant works. In celebration of the album's 30th anniversary, Yep Roc Records is pressing The Way I Should on vinyl for the first time. The album is remastered by Mike Westbrook of Material Mastering and is pressed on Summer Sky color vinyl, limited to 1,000 copies worldwide.
 
Tracks
1 When My Mornin' Comes Around
2 There's a Wall in Washington
3 Wasteland of the Free
4 I'll Take My Sorrow Straight
5 This Kind of Happy
6 The Way I Should
7 Letter to Mom
8 Keep Me God
9 Quality Time
10 Walkin' Home
11 Trouble (With Delbert McClinton)

No Hassle Returns
No Hassle Returns
Not happy with your purchase? We make it easy.
Have questions? See our return policy