Shovels & Rope are the singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist pair Carrie Ann Hearst and Michael Trent, whose music extends from indie folk and alt country to country oriented indie rock. Both musicians have a similar style which gives them consistency regardless of who is leading any given song. They are particularly strong on their execution and delivery as they turn out outstanding harmonies that accentuate the contrast between their individual voices. Their songs are bold and have a wide screen, big stage quality. They happen to be emotionally expressive and strong on hooks. The duo is also sharp on the instrumentation front and their production. They have been releasing a series of recordings called Busted Jukebox, where they play covers with various collaborators. Their 2024 album Something Is Working Up Above My Head found them having cranked up the rock component of their sound.