“Secret Country,” the new album from The New Maps, finds the Austin, Texas-based power-roots-pop band sticking to its guns while at the same time expanding its boundaries. While the emphasis is still squarely on the song – melodies, lyrics and arrangements, “Secret Country” finds the band harnessing bigger, bolder, guitar-and-drum-forward sonics in the service of its 10 new, hook-filled tales of yearning, learning and going home. Featuring 9 originals by singer, guitarist and songwriter Michael Hill, as well as a wistful, atmospheric cover of Mark Kozelek’s Red House Painters gem “Have You Forgotten,” “Secret Country” is largely a product of core members Hill (vocals, guitars, bass, keyboards, percussion) and Jeff Olson (drums, vibraphone), but one that also features guest performances from cellist Dylan Rieck (Balmorhea) and pedal steel guitarist Phil Ajjarapu. Founded in 2011, The New Maps released their full-length debut “These Parts” in 2012. Original bassist Paul Grotevant exited the band later that year, but Dusty Rhodes (Mother Falcon, Sahara Smith) has since stepped in to fill that gap admirably. Now, with a new recording, a new member and new energy driving them, The New Maps are poised to keep pushing outward, stretching their boundaries as they take listeners through the “Secret Country” and beyond.