Ben Gallaher ‘Time’ – Album Review

Ben Gallaher’s new album, Time is out now, September 26th on all streaming platforms. Take a listen and read our full review below.

On his new album, Time, Ben Gallaher is truly ready for the spotlight. While many of today’s country stars can wear multiple hats as singers, songwriters, and guitarists, few are as strong in all three as Gallaher. Think John Mayer meets Keith Urban with hints of Bryan Adams and Kip Moore and you’ve got Gallaher.

A true triple threat, the Quartz Hill Records artist plays lead guitar on each of the album’s thirteen tracks, co-writing five. Produced by Neil and Patrick Thrasher, the collection blends country, rock, and pop, influenced by 80’s pop, 90’s country, 2000’s rock, and everything in between.     

“I named the album Time because every song, every guitar riff and every live show only comes with time,” shares Gallaher in a statement. “And that’s exactly what went into making this record: time. These songs take me to different moments in my life and in my journey, all leading to finally making the record that I’ve always wanted to make.” 

The album opens with “I’ll Take You,” a mid-tempo yet anthemic rocker that originally started as a ballad. Yet, with its infectious melodies and catchy instrumentation, it’s radio ready in a way that should instantly make Gallaher a chart topper. “I’ll take you over anybody any day, you like sunshine over rain,” He sings over driving guitars. “Your hand in my hand, Whatever life throws my way  I’ll take you over anybody any day.” 

“Sometimes, turning a ballad into a tempo track doesn’t work at all, and it feels forced, but this time it was the most organic experience,” says Gallaher of the transition that the song took. “I started playing that riff, and it fell right where it needed to land. Country music has always been built on relatability, and if you love someone like this song is describing, you get that.”     

Throughout the LP, it’s clear that Gallaher is a guitarist first, the riffs and instrumentation truly standing out in a way that’s exciting and yet not overdone. “Betcha Money” provides one such moment, as he accepts the challenge to turn a girl ‘country.” 

Likewise, with “Dirt Ones,” he honors the grit of a road warrior chasing every mile, and on “Rearview,” he shines with a pop-country gem about holding onto the memories that truly matter.

“Mistakes” stands as the most pop-rock-leaning track on the record, echoing influences from the Goo Goo Dolls, Matchbox Twenty, and the Gin Blossoms. With a triumphant roar, he declares, “Everything that don’t kill me, makes me stronger than I was before.”

Elsewhere, the album’s title track follows in a similar vein, an alterna-rock tune that stands out with its groovy bass line and breezy melody that is as lush as it is meaningful. “I wish I could move on like time,” He muses, a warm guitar melody lifting the lyrics.

“Whiskey on a Wound” is a gritty story song, one of Gallaher’s personal favorites. Speaking to The Music Universe, he reveals, “ I’ve always loved this song personally, but once I started playing it live several years ago, the fans always reacted with, “When is this song being released?!” It’s a special one to me because I can finally get this one out there. It’s been a long time coming!”

“Where Do You Go” stands out in its simplicity, Gallaher’s emotive rasp clinging to the sparse acoustic ballad that shows he’s both a skilled singer and storyteller. “Where do you go when your go-to’s gone?” He asks, almost pleading with sadness.

“Kinda Can’t Say No” is a seductive ode to irresistible attraction, while “Bullet” is a gorgeous ballad, a proclamation of a love worth dying for. Inspired by his wife and solidified by his young son, it’s a perfect song for a first dance or a Grey’s Anatomy montage sequence. 

“If there ever comes a time // If there ever comes a day // I’d give my life if it kept you safe // I hope it don’t but just know if it came down to it // I’d take a bullet for you I’d take a bullet for you”

The album ends on a high note with “Stomp,” a raucous and rowdy showstopper that was built around a viral guitar lick. With Gallaher’s guitar skills at the forefront, he cleverly draws listeners in with ear-catching riffs before bellowing into a full blown barn burner.

“Sounds like a 12 gauge goin’ off // When they play a little thing called STOMP // STOMP ON A COPPERHEAD // STOMP LIKE YA STOMP OUT A MARLBORO RED // STOMP ON AN OLD FLAT BED // THEY’RE SIPPIN’ AND A PICKIN’ BACK IN THE SWAMP // THAT SHIT THEY’RE KICKIN’ MAKE YA WANNA STOMP”

Blending sharp songwriting, undeniable guitar chops, and a voice built for both grit and tenderness, this record feels like the start of something big. If Time is any indication, Ben Gallaher’s time to shine begins now.

Country Swag Picks:

1. I’ll Take You
2. Stomp
3. Bullet
4. Time
5. Where Do You Go

Time Track List:

1. I’ll Take You (Neil Thrasher, Wendell Mobley, Tony Martin)
2. Rearview (Chris DeStefano, Travis Wood, Casey Brown, Jordan Minton)
3. Bullet (Ben Gallaher, Chris August, Kelley Lovelace, Neil Thrasher)
4. Betcha Money (Neil Thrasher, Wendell Mobley, Lee Thomas Miller)
5. Where Do You Go (Neil Thrasher, Josh Thompson, Kelley Lovelace)
6. Dirt Ones (Tony Martin, Neil Thrasher)
7. Time (Ben Gallaher, Neil Thrasher, Tony Martin)
8. Mistakes (Ben Gallaher, Tony Martin, Neil Thrasher)
9. Kinda Can’t Say No (Lee Thomas Miller, Wendell Mobley, Neil Thrasher)
10. Love Is Hard (Neil Thrasher, Kurt Allison, Tully Kennedy, Tony Martin)
11. Cuts Like a Knife (Bryan Adams, Jim Vallance)
12. Whiskey on a Wound (Ben Gallaher, Kelley Lovelace, Neil Thrasher)
13. Stomp (Ben Gallaher, Neil Thrasher, Patrick Thrasher, Wendell Mobley)