warren-zeiders-relapse-lies

Warren Zeiders: ‘Relapse, Lies & Betrayal’ – Album Review

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Warren Zeiders’ new project, Relapse, Lies, & Betrayal is out now, March 14th on all streaming platforms. Take a listen and read our full review below.

Known for his emotive rasp and sturdy growl, rising country star Warren Zeiders is back with his most powerful and impactful project to date, Relapse, Lies, & Betrayal. Over the course of the LP’s 21 tracks, Zeiders deals with heartbreak, introspection, healing, and growth, as both a person and an artist.

For the ambitious project, the “Pretty Little Poison” singer enlisted hitmakers Ross Copperman and Mike Elizondo to help him produce the album. The Warner Records star also co-wrote 17 of the album’s songs, alongside the likes of Chris Stapleton, Erik Dylan, Eric Paslay, Ali Tamposi, Ryan Beaver, and more.

Throughout the album’s winding tracks, Zeiders mixes pure country with hints of blues, alternative, and rock, his emotive voice truly making each track unique. The project opens with “Relapse,” a driving and uptempo ode to falling back into an unhealthy relationship with an ex. While they both know it’s bad, they do it anyway, relapsing into each other. It’s a theme that traverses many of the album’s songs, reminding listeners that love is sometimes messy and intoxicating.

“Crying Whiskey” finds Zeiders on the receiving end of a relentless drunk dialer, while “Withdrawal” is a whiskey-drenched breakup song, the singer-songwriter grappling with the physical pain of breaking up. Likewise, “Intoxicated” and “Addictions” both find Zeiders likening love to an illicit substance as he deals with the ache of longing.

“Lies” is a raspy, rhythmic, and drum-heavy confrontation that finds him dealing with deception, while “Bad” is an almost frenetic look at a woman who’s just all kinds of wrong. On the latter, the almost ska-tinted chorus provides a clever juxtaposition of music and lyrics, pairing sing-songy melodies with downtrodden lyrics in the best way.

“Take It to the Grave” is a truly electric moment with roaring guitars tearing through the dark and rock-tinted track as he examines the destruction left in his own wake. “All the hell I’ve raised,” He growls forcefully, “I’ma take it to the grave.”

“Betrayal” draws listeners in immediately and pulls them straight to the Pennsylvania native’s side, as he muses, “This is a story about betrayal…Shame on me if ya fool me twice.” Likewise, “You For a Reason” and “Can a Heart Take” are both stunningly powerful heartbreak ballads that allow him to flex his incredible vocal prowess.

“Love in Letting Go” is a clear standout, pairing Zeiders with the angelic voice of Lanie Gardner. The ballad allows Zeiders to show his softer side, perfectly complimenting the lush tone of Gardner’s voice, creating an especially poignant and beautiful harmonic moment. While many duets deal with love found, this one struggles with the confusing feelings that come from love lost.

“There’s love in letting go // Ain’t no shame in coming close // You know it wasn’t all worth nothing // If we didn’t end up being something // You’ll never be someone I wish I didn’t know // There’s love in letting go”

Songs like “Fight Like Hell,” “Death of a Cowboy,” “Without You,” and “Everything Comes to Go Away” continue to find him failing to surrender in the battle for love. On the uber-catchy”Without You,” he promises unending love, even in the face of a breakup.

“I’ll love you today, I’ll love you tomorrow, wherever you go // My love’s gonna follow, never held a ghost // But I’ll figure out how to, if you left me a world, without you, without you // I’ll never love again, I’ll never love again”

“Every Single Version of You” is a welcome change of pace, a stunning and sparse ballad that’s perfect for a wedding. It’s a story of an enduring love that will grow and change as the lovers do, Zeiders proclaiming, “I can’t wait to keep loving every single version of you.”

The album ends with the one two punch of the dark and moody “Devil I Know,” followed by the Stapleton-penned “Love on the Line.” While the former finds him musing that “The devil I know Is a hell of a lot better than the devil I don’t,” “Love on the Line” is an acoustic guitar-driven power ballad that builds to an epic climax.

The album’s final two tracks are perfectly representative of the collection as a whole, dealing with a broken heart and what’s yet to come. For Warren Zeiders, Relapse, Lies, & Betrayal is truly an emotional journey for both performer and listener alike.

Country Swag Picks:

  1. Without You
  2. Take it to the Grave
  3. Can a Heart Take
  4. Intoxicated
  5. Love in Letting Go with Lanie Gardner
  6. Bad

Relapse, Lies & Betrayal Track List:

Part 1:

  1. Can A Heart Take (Randy Montana, Ross Copperman, Ryan Beaver, WarrenZeiders)
  2. You For A Reason (Alex Maxwell, Rivers Rutherford, Warren Zeiders)
  3. Bad (Ali Tamposi, Blake Pendergrass, Griff Clawson, Jacob Kasher, Nick Long, Warren Zeiders)
  4. Crying Whiskey (Tamposi, Pendergrass, Griff Clawson, Jacob Jasher, John Byron, Nick Long, Warren Zeiders)
  5. Lies (Pendergrass, Justin Ebach, Copperman, Warren Zeiders)
  6. Without You (Pendergrass, Ebach, Copperman, Warren Zeiders)
  7. Every Single Version Of You (Connor Mcdonough, Feli Ferraro, Riley Mcdonough)
  8. Everything Comes To Go Away (Ben Goldsmith, Cecilia Castleman)
  9. Withdrawal (Maxwell, Russell Sutton, Warren Zeiders)
  10. Take It To The Grave (Greylan Egan James, Mark Holman, Matt Roy, Warren Zeiders)

Part 2: 

  1. Relapse (Pendergrass, Ebach, Warren Zeiders)
  2. Intoxicated (Bart Butler, Benjy Davis, Mark Holman, Montana, Warren Zeiders)
  3. Betrayal (Tamposi, Pendergrass, Jacob Kasher Hindlin, Ebach, Warren Zeiders)
  4. Addictions (Maxwell, Rutherford, Warren Zeiders)
  5. Stones Throw Away (Erik Dylan, Holman, Montana, Warren Zeiders)
  6. High Desert Road (Eric Paslay, Rutherford, Warren Zeiders)
  7. Death Of A Cowboy (Joybeth Taylor, Rutherford, Warren Zeiders)
  8. Fight Like Hell (Erik Dylan, Jared Keim, Beaver, Warren Zeiders)
  9. Devil I Know (Joe Clemmons, Mike Walker, Warren Zeiders)
  10. Love On The Line (Al Anderson, Chris Stapleton)

warren-zeiders-relapse-lies-album

Fans can join our Weekly Round-Up e-newsletter here, for the latest in country music and more news about future Warren Zeiders releases.

To keep up with the singer-songwriter, follow him on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook. Visit his official website for tour dates and more.

Relapse, Lies, & Betrayal is available everywhere you buy or stream music. Take a listen below and check out more new recently released music on our ‘New Country Music’ playlist. Be sure to give the playlist a follow for your weekly new country music fix.

jordana-bryant-EP

Here Is Jordana Bryant’s EP ‘Right Key Wrong Porch’

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Jordana Bryant releases her new project, Right Key Wrong Porch EP, officially out now, March 14th on all streaming platforms. Learn more and listen to the new songs below.

Jordana Bryant is a young, talented singer-songwriter in Nashville. She releases music that speaks to her life experiences, while also inspiring girls just like her to follow their dreams, confront their mistakes, and trust themselves. Today, the songstress releases her newest project. Right Key Wrong Porch is officially out now featuring six incredibly curated new songs for fans to enjoy!

When asked about the record, Bryant shared with us at Country Swag, “When you’re releasing a body of work you get to say a lot more about your artistry and really put out a message more so than when you’re realizing one song at a time. To me this project is really special, it’s kind of about the last year or two of my life, and I think that when a door doesn’t open, it just means it’s not the right door for you,” adding, later, “It’s proof that the right opportunity is still out there. You just have to stay true to yourself and keep going. That’s a big message that I’ve learned after the last year or two. […] I’m really excited to share that.”

Right Key Wrong Porch is an awesome project from Bryant. It’s a song that many people can find themselves in. Listen to the new EP ASAP!

Right Key Wrong Porch EP Track List

  1. Turns Out
  2. Miles Don’t Matter
  3. Something Like Us
  4. Remembering It Wrong
  5. Hot Mess
  6. When God Closes Doors
jordana-bryant-ep

Jordana Bryant shares new project, ‘Right Key Wrong Porch,’ EP out now on all streaming platforms.

Fans can join our Weekly Round-Up e-newsletter here, for the latest in country music and more news about future Jordan Bryant releases.

To keep up with Jordana Bryant, follow her on Instagram, TikTok,  Twitter, and Facebook.

Right Key Wrong Porch EP is available everywhere you buy or stream music. Take a listen below and check out more new recently released music here on our ‘New Country Music’ playlist. Be sure to give the playlist a follow for your weekly new country music fix.

kelsea-ballerini-patterns-deluxe

Here Is Kelsea Ballerini Album ‘Patterns (Deluxe)’

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Kelsea Ballerina releases her deluxe album, Patterns (Deluxe), officially out now, March 7th on all streaming platforms. Learn more and listen to the new songs below.

Kelsea Ballerini is at the absolute top of her game! She released arguably the biggest album of her career, PATTERNS, is currently on a sold-out tour, and is even a judge on the hit show The Voice. Somehow, the songstress has also found time to release the deluxe version of her album. Today, Ballerini shares PATTERNS (Deluxe) featuring five brand new songs.

The singer took to Instagram to share the news of the record stating,”it just so happens i wasn’t done unpacking🤍 patterns (deluxe) out march 7th!!! IM SO EXCITED.” The extended project features five new songs, including “Future Tripping” and “To The Men That Love Women After Heartbreak.”

PATTERNS remains Ballerini’s best record to date, with the deluxe version making an arguably perfect album even more perfect!

Patterns (Deluxe)  Track List:

  1. Patterns (Alysa Vanderheym, Jessie Jo Dillon, Hillary Lindsey, Karen Fairchild, Kelsea Ballerini)
  2. Sorry Mom (Alysa Vanderheym, Jessie Jo Dillon, Hillary Lindsey, Karen Fairchild, Kelsea Ballerini)
  3. Baggage (Alysa Vanderheym, Jessie Jo Dillon, Hillary Lindsey, Karen Fairchild, Kelsea Ballerini)
  4. First Rodeo (Alysa Vanderheym, Jessie Jo Dillon, Hillary Lindsey, Karen Fairchild, Kelsea Ballerini)
  5. Nothing Really Matters (Alysa Vanderheym, Jessie Jo Dillon, Kelsea Ballerini)
  6. How Much Do You Love Me (Alysa Vanderheym, Jessie Jo Dillon, Kelsea Ballerini)
  7. Two Things (Alysa Vanderheym, Jessie Jo Dillon, Hillary Lindsey, Karen Fairchild, Kelsea Ballerini)
  8. We Broke Up (Alysa Vanderheym, Jessie Jo Dillon, Hillary Lindsey, Karen Fairchild, Kelsea Ballerini)
  9. WAIT! (Alysa Vanderheym, Kelsea Ballerini)
  10. Beg for Your Love (Alysa Vanderheym, Jessie Jo Dillon, Hillary Lindsey, Karen Fairchild, Kelsea Ballerini)
  11. Deep (Alysa Vanderheym, Jessie Jo Dillon, Kelsea Ballerini)
  12. Cowboys Cry Too (with Noah Kahan) (Alysa Vanderheym, Kelsea Ballerini, Noah Kahan)
  13. I Would, Would You (Alysa Vanderheym, Jessie Jo Dillon, Kelsea Ballerini)
  14. This Time Last Year (Alysa Vanderheym, Kelsea Ballerini)
  15. Did You Make It Home? (outro) (Alysa Vanderheym, Kelsea Ballerini)
  16. To The Men That Love Women After Heartbreak (Alysa Vanderheym, Jessie Jo Dillon, Hillary Lindsey, Karen Fairchild, Kelsea Ballerini)
  17. Future Tripping (Alysa Vanderheym, Kelsea Ballerini)
  18. Put It To Bed (Alysa Vanderheym, Kelsea Ballerini)
  19. Cut Me Up (Alysa Vanderheym, Jessie Jo Dillon, Kelsea Ballerini)
  20. Hindsight Is Happiness (Alysa Vanderheym, Kelsea Ballerini)
kelsea-ballerini-patterns-deluxe

Kelsea Ballerini shares the deluxe version of her album, ‘Patterns,’ out now on all streaming platforms.

Fans can join our Weekly Round-Up e-newsletter here, for the latest in country music and more news about future Kelsea Ballerini releases.

To keep up with Kelsea Ballerini, follow her on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

Patterns (Deluxe)  is available everywhere you buy or stream music. Take a listen below and check out more new recently released music here on our ‘New Country Music’ playlist. Be sure to give the playlist a follow for your weekly new country music fix.

tyler-rich-hello-california

Tyler Rich: ‘Hello California’ – Album Review

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Tyler Rich shares his sophomore album, Hello California, officially out now, March 7th on all streaming platforms. Learn more and listen to the new album below.

For Tyler Rich, his new album, Hello California, out now, represents a shift back to his musical and personal roots. Born and raised in the Golden State, Rich lends those influences to the follow up to his 2023 EP, I Know You Do.

Produced by Californians Brad Hill and Lalo Guzman, the independent project features ten new tracks, nine of which Rich co-wrote along with the likes of Eric Paslay, Parker Welling, Steven Lee Olsen, and more.

“This album has been a long time coming, and it’s my first chance to release music straight from the heart, with no limits,” shared Rich in a statement. “After ten years in Nashville, I’m grateful for the lessons I’ve learned, the relationships I’ve built, and the success that came from navigating the industry. Now, as an independent artist, I finally get to take the reins and do things my way.”

The album sets the stage with its titular track, a lush and anthemic alt-pop-country love song dedicated to his home state. Here, he shines on his love for both California and a special woman as he flexes his powerful voice. “Hello California, the sunshine on my face,” He sings. “Girl you feel like home when you look at me that way.”

“Whiskey Go Bad” is an immediate standout, crafted perfectly for a memorable moment in a live show. It’s a twangy and fun countrified uptempo and a stomping, shanty-esque celebration of living life in the moment. “Life’s too good to let the whiskey go bad,” He proclaims on the lively and jovial track.

Similarly, “Cigarettes (Lie to Me)” is another driving uptempo with its roaring and funky guitars that pair perfectly with a call and response chorus that is going to set live audiences on fire, chanting “hey, hey, hey!”

Rich perfectly toes the line between lovelorn and heartbreak ballads, shining on the romantic “Right Tonight,” the wedding-ready “Drive Me Home,” the impassioned “Gets Me Every Time,” and the heartbreaking “What Do I Know?” “What Do I Know?” finds him dealing with his heartbreak, while “Gets Me” reminds a woman in his life of all the things he loves about her.

“Gets Me Every Time is about those moments in life that never get old,” Rich explains. “Whether it’s a nostalgic memory or a moment with someone you love, the song reflects those unforgettable experiences. Maybe it’s hearing an old song, visiting your hometown, or spending time with lifelong friends. The lyrics draw a parallel to how a romantic partner’s every action hits you the same way, over and over, just like those cherished memories. It’s about that timeless kind of love that feels new every time.”

Meanwhile, “All the Small Things” is a reminder that life is made great by its little moments, and not money or fame. “You can lose it all in a New York minute// Makin’ that money won’t make you a livin’// Time runs out but you can make it count,” He proclaims. “With the right kind of memories// You can have it all In the pictures up on the wall// And I hope I fill the bigger picture frame// With all the small things.”

Rich continues his introspection on songs like “Give Up To Get It” and “Home We Choose,” both creating special moments on the album. The latter finds him examining the sacrifices made for his success, while longing for more time to enjoy his life and career. Alternatively, “Home We Choose” is a clever way to look at where you settle your roots as an adult. It breathes fresh air into the idea of a hometown song, as he looks at where we choose to place our roots.

“We’re all looking for some somewhere to be found // A steady place where we can plant our roots // We’re all lost until we find some solid ground // Front porch step where we can set our boots // Whether it’s states away or two doors down // A place that’s old or new // We all got a hometown and a home we choose”

On Hello California, Tyler Rich returns to his roots, releasing a polished collection of anthemic country and poignant ballads.

Country Swag Picks:

  1. Hello California
  2. Whiskey Go Bad
  3. What Do I Know?

Hello California Track List:

  1. Hello California (Casey Brown, Parker Welling, Tyler Rich)
  2. Gets Me Every Time (Jason Massey, Travis Wood, Tyler Rich)
  3. Cigarettes (Lie To Me) (Dylan Guthro, Lalo Guzman)
  4. Give Up to Get It (Blake Bollinger, Steven Lee Olsen, Tyler Rich)
  5. All The Small Things (Jason Gantt, Jason Nix, Tyler Rich)
  6. Whiskey Go Bad (Blake Bollinger, Reid Isbell, Tyler Rich)
  7. What Do I Know (Eric Paslay, Jason Massey, Tyler Rich)
  8. Right Tonight (Casey Brown, Parker Welling, Tyler Rich)
  9. Drive Me Home (Josh Mirenda, Michael Tyler, Tyler Rich)
  10. Home We Choose (Emily Falvey, Lalo Guzman, Tyler Rich)
Tyler-rich-hello-california

Tyler Rich shares new album, ‘Hello California,’ out now on all streaming platforms.

Fans can join our Weekly Round-Up e-newsletter here, for the latest in country music and more news about future Tyler Rich releases.

To keep up with Tyler Rich, follow him on Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, and Facebook. Visit his official website for tour dates and more.

Hello California is available everywhere you buy or stream music. Take a listen below and check out more new recently released music here on our ‘New Country Music’ playlist. Be sure to give the playlist a follow for your weekly new country music fix.

caylee-hammack-bed-of-roses

Here Is Caylee Hammack’s Album ‘Bed of Roses’

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Caylee Hammack releases her sophomore album, Bed of Roses, officially out now, March 7th on all streaming platforms. Learn more and listen to the new album below.

Caylee Hammack is gifted at bringing her own flair to country music. Her music is unique blend of 70s soul and red-dirt rock, with the storytelling that the country genre does the best mixed in. Today, the singer-songwriter releases her sophomore album, featuring thirteen new songs. Bed of Roses is officially out now!

“Your bed of roses is the bed you make—you get to decide how you spend your time and how you plant your garden,” shared Hammack in a recent press release. “Good love is flowers that come back every year. Bad love, it’s just the thorn. Sometimes you’ve got to till shit up. You’ve got to work through things, and it’s not going to be fun. And then one day, your friends come over and you sit as a family on the back porch in the garden. And when they compliment the roses near the gate or the cherry tomatoes speckled about in the pasta, you get the pleasure of realizing, ‘I grew that, I put love, time and belief into something, and it paid off.’”

Make sure to listen to Bed of Roses ASAP!

Bed of Roses Track List:

  1. Bed of Roses (Caylee Hammack, Benjy Davis, Jeff Hyde)
  2. Breaking Dishes (Caylee Hammack, Mikey Reaves, Gordie Sampson)
  3. What My Angels Think of Me (Caylee Hammack, Meg McRee, Jake Mitchell)
  4. Back Again (Caylee Hammack, Tofer Brown, Lauren Hungate)
  5. Mammas (Ed Bruce, Patricia Bruce, Mia Mantia, SJ McDonald, Trent Wayne)
  6. No I Ain’t (Caylee Hammack, Mark Trussell, Stephen Wilson Jr.)
  7. The Hill (Caylee Hammack, Tenille Townes, Logan Wall)
  8. The Pot & The Kettle (Caylee Hammack, Connor Thuotte, Stephen Wilson Jr.)
  9. Bread & Butter (Caylee Hammack, Luke Dick, Jeff Hyde)
  10. Cleopatra (Caylee Hammack, Meg McRee, Jake Mitchell)
  11. How Long (Caylee Hammack, John Osborne, Lucie Silvas)
  12. Oh, Kara (Caylee Hammack)
  13. Tumbleweed Men (Caylee Hammack, Joe Clemmons, Benjy Davis)
caylee-hammack-bed-of-roses-album

Caylee Hammack shares new album, ‘Bed of Roses,’ out now on all streaming platforms.

Fans can join our Weekly Round-Up e-newsletter here, for the latest in country music and more news about future Caylee Hammack releases.

To keep up with Caylee Hammack follow her on Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, and Facebook.

Bed of Roses is available everywhere you buy or stream music. Take a listen below and check out more new recently released music here on our ‘New Country Music’ playlist. Be sure to give the playlist a follow for your weekly new country music fix.

kat-luna-that-girl

Here is Kat Luna’s New EP ‘That Girl’

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Kat Luna shares her new EP, That Girl, officially out now, March 7th on all streaming platforms. Learn more and listen to the new project below.

Breakthrough singer-songwriter and Sony Music Nashville recording artist, Kat Luna is ready to continue taking the country music genre by storm! Luna infuses her heritage into a cool blend of Spanish and English music. Today, the singer-songwriter shares her newest EP called, That Girl featuring eight tracks.

“This EP is the most honest and personal music I have ever written and I am so excited to share it. This project is a time capsule of a particular part of my life and it really embodies my story of finding myself and my true happiness.  I can’t wait for everyone to hear it and I hope it helps others in their journey too,” shared the songstress.

Listen to Luna’s brand new EP That Girl ASAP!

That Girl Track List:

  1. I Don’t (Spanglish Version) (Kat Luna, Emma Kleinberg, Robyn Dell Unto, Erika Ender)
  2. Left Right (Spanglish Version) (Kat Luna, Cole Miracle, Austin Taylor Smith, Erika Ender)
  3. That Girl (Spanglish Version) (Kat Luna, Rhett Akins, KK Johnson, Erika Ender)
  4. Young Again (Kat Luna, Ben Goldsmith, Lauren McLamb)
  5. Happiest I’ve Ever Been (Spanglish Version) (Kat Luna, Josh Kerr, Peytan Porter, Erika Ender)
  6. Tú No (I Don’t Spanish – Version) [Bonus track] (Kat Luna, Emma Kleinberg, Robyn Dell Unto, Erika Ender)
  7. Left Right (Bonus Track) (Kat Luna, Cole Miracle, Austin Taylor Smith)
  8. I Don’t (Bonus Track) (Kat Luna, Emma Kleinberg, Robyn Dell Unto)
kat-luna-that-girl

Kat Luna shares her new EP, ‘That Girl,’ out now on all streaming platforms.

Fans can join our Weekly Round-Up e-newsletter here, for the latest in country music and more news about future Kat Luna releases.

To keep up with Kat Luna, follow her on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook.

That Girl is available everywhere you buy or stream music. Take a listen below and check out more new recently released music here on our ‘New Country Music’ playlist. Be sure to give the playlist a follow for your weekly new country music fix.

mackenzie-carpenter-debut-album

Mackenzie Carpenter: ‘Hey Country Queen’ – Debut Album Review

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Mackenzie Carpenter releases her debut album, Hey Country Queen, officially out now, March 7th on all streaming platforms. Learn more and listen to the new album below.

With the kind of voice that immediately draws you in and the kind of lyrics that immediately grab your attention, Mackenzie Carpenter is ready to make her debut with Hey Country Queen. Already hugely successful as a writer on songs like Lily Rose’s “Villain” and Megan Moroney’s “I’m Not Pretty,” the undeniable Carpenter is ready to take a step forward as an artist.

On her debut album with The Valory Music Co, the Georgia native reveals herself as a true force to be reckoned with. Carpenter co-wrote each of the album’s thirteen tracks, and it’s truly representative of a young woman in her prime. “This album has been a long time coming, and I’m so excited to finally share these songs with you. I’ve lived with them for years, and now it’s time to set them free,” shares Carpenter. “Hey Country Queen captures the essence of girlhood, heartbreak and love, and I can’t wait for you to hear it.”

Carpenter kicks things off with the bluesy and twangy “Dozen Red Flags,” a tongue-in-cheek look at a dude whose good qualities overshadow the fact that he was a walking red flag. “This one’s for the girls who’ve ever fallen for the guy with more red flags than green,” says Carpenter. “‘Dozen Red Flags’ is flirty, fun and all about knowing he’s trouble but diving in anyway—because let’s face it, he’s cute. The song covers a little heartbreak, a lot of lessons and a fun debrief with your girls.”

“But, man, he was cute and, damn, he was funny // My brother thought he was the man // If violets are blue, then I’m such a dummy // To think he’d have roses in hand I would’ve settled for tulips or daisies // I ain’t picking petals ’cause all that he gave me // Was reasons for running And a couple dozen red flags”

“I Wish You Would” is an immediate standout, a perfect dancehall duet that allows Carpenter to riff off of Midland’s Mark Wystrach as they play a pair of fated lovers, unable to resist each other amongst the promises of neon lights and endless drinks. “‘I Wish You Would (ft. Midland)’ is a fun, flirty tune about wanting someone to be more forward, quit guessing and make the first move. It’s about craving a spark with someone and longing for more than a few glances with that person you’ve noticed from across the bar,” shares Carpenter. “Midland has always been a dream collaboration, and they bring a smooth classic vibe to the song.” 

“I loved ‘I Wish You Would’ from the jump when Mackenzie and Jamie Moore sent it our way. When I went to lay my part, I was thrown back in time to the era of Conway and Lorretta Lynn and Kenny and Dolly iconic duets,” adds Wystrach. “The melodies are hypnotic, and the soaring hook is pure Country gold. The structure of the song is non-symmetrical, so it keeps revealing new sonic surprises leaving you wanting to hear it again and again.”

Carpenter also shines on ballads that are full of ache and heartache, evidenced on songs like “Red Wine Blue,” “Jesus, I’m Jealous,” “Guys Like You,” and “The Other Side.” While “Red Wine Blue” was inspired by a message from Dolly Parton that came to her in a dream, “Guys Like You” has her musing about a “guy’s girl” who everyone loves. “The Other Side” is a whimsical wonder that finds her dreaming what a certain love would be like, while “Jesus, I’m Jealous” is a gorgeous ballad that finds her longing for love, watching it all around her.

“But, Jesus, I’m jealous, just had to tell you // Watchin’ the two of ’em head over heels // I guess I was hopin’ I wouldn’t be lonely // And maybe by now I would know how that feels // He’s spinnin’ her ’round like she’s Cinderella // I shouldn’t be starin’, but hell, I can’t help it // Jesus, I’m jealous”

While many of the album’s ballads center around heartache, “Country Queen” and “Only Girl” tell very different stories. “Only Girl” is a sparse and poignant ballad that’s ready for a wedding song or Instagram post, celebrating the love of a man who treats a woman right.

“He looks at me like the only star in his sky // He holds me tight like he’ll never say goodbye // I know there’s millions and billions of people // Living in this world But he loves me like I’m the only girl // l Like I’m the only girl”

While Carpenter shines on ballads, she can also throw down a countrified romp with the best of them. Highlights include “Don’t Mess with Exes,” which finds her channeling her inner Miranda Lambert, while “Sound of a Heartbreak” is a driving and catchy up tempo and “Gowgirl LIke Me” channels a bit of hip-hop-meets-bro-country. “Boots On” is the perfect country pop romp, flirty and seductive as she entices her man to come home, promising that she ain’t got nothin’ but her boots on.

“Gone Fishin’” is a gritty, 80’s country story song of the best type, finding her serving up a bit of vengeance on the lake. “He’s gone fishing out in the dark // Wasn’t hard to fit him in the trunk of my car // Had to scrub down the dock and his tackle box // Used a whole damn gallon of Clorox,” She muses. “He’s gone fishing I’m at the bar // Perfect alibi drinking PBR //  Nobody even knows he’s missing, Bet he’s wishing //  He’d never gone fishing”

Inspired by the country queens that paved the way for her, Mackenzie Carpenter’s Hey Country Queen is the perfect introduction to the rising superstar who is clearly one of the genre’s next big queens

Country Swag Picks:

  1. Dozen Red Flags
  2. Boots On
  3. I Wish You Would (ft. Midland)
  4. Jesus, I’m Jealous
  5. Gone Fishin’

Hey Country Queen Track List:

  1. Dozen Red Flags (Mackenzie Carpenter, Nicolle Galyon, Brandon Hood)
  2. Boots On (Mackenzie Carpenter, Rhett Akins, Brandon Hood, Ben Williams)
  3. Only Girl (Mackenzie Carpenter, Micah Carpenter, Mia Mantia, SJ McDonald)
  4. I Wish You Would (ft. Midland) (Mackenzie Carpenter, Jonathan Hutcherson, Jamie Moore, Chris Tompkins)
  5. Don’t Mess With Exes (Mackenzie Carpenter, Nicolle Galyon, Brandon Hood)
  6. Gone Fishin’ (Mackenzie Carpenter, Mia Mantia, SJ McDonald)
  7. Red Wine Blue (Mackenzie Carpenter, Luke Laird, Anna Vaus)
  8. Jesus, I’m Jealous (Mackenzie Carpenter, Steve Moakler)
  9. Sound Of A Heartbreak (Mackenzie Carpenter, Brandon Hood, Liz Rose)
  10. Cowgirl Like Me (Mackenzie Carpenter, Micah Carpenter, Lauren LaRue)
  11. Guys Like You (Mackenzie Carpenter, Nicolle Galyon, Brandon Hood)
  12. The Other Side (Mackenzie Carpenter, Mia Mantia, SJ McDonald)
  13. Country Queen (Mackenzie Carpenter, Jessie Jo Dillon, Ben Johnson)
Mackenzie-carpenter-hey-country-queen-debut-album

Mackenzie Carpenter shares her debut album, ‘Hey Country Queen,’ out now on all streaming platforms.

Fans can join our Weekly Round-Up e-newsletter here, for the latest in country music and more news about future Mackenzie Carpenter releases.

To keep up with Mackenzie Carpenter, follow her on Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, and Facebook. Visit her official website for tour dates and more.

Hey Country Queen is available everywhere you buy or stream music. Take a listen below and check out more new recently released music here on our ‘New Country Music’ playlist. Be sure to give the playlist a follow for your weekly new country music fix.

craig-morgan-american-soundtrack-EP

Craig Morgan: ‘American Soundtrack’ – EP Review

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Craig Morgan shares his new EP, American Soundtrack, out now,February 28th, on all streaming platforms. Listen to the new music below.

When you think of Craig Morgan, there are a few things that immediately come to mind: faith, patriotism, passion, county living, and that signature voice. On his new EP, American Soundtrack, all of those are on full display. 

Over the course of six new songs, the BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville artist takes listeners on a journey through all the things in life that are important to him. “I try to celebrate God, family and country in my music and in everything I do,” He shares. “That’s what I have always done and I’ve come to realize it’s my platform. I don’t stress about things as much as I used to. I just try to write, sing, produce and play the best music that we can and go where I think God wants me to be.”

Morgan co-wrote five of the EP’s six new tracks, aiming to create something special for his fans. The lone exception is the stunning “God’s Problems,” an impassioned ballad that finds the Grand Ole Opry Member desperate to live his life in a way that’s easy on God. “I live that song. I truly do,” he says. “I believe in what it says and every day I work hard to not be one of God’s problems. I try not to be one of those guys that God is having to work hard at trying to straighten up. There’s a resurgence in our society right now of people trying to overcome adversities and to do better in life. You can see it in our format. Jelly Roll, especially, is the template for that. He’s changing people’s lives, and I’d like to think that I’m doing the same thing.”

Similarly, “Blue Collar Prayer” is an emotional moment for Morgan, a slide guitar-laden look at simple people and the things they long for to make their lives better. While some may pray for things like money and fame, the protagonists in the story are working-class people like a farmer in need of rain and a pregnant waitress hoping for the best for her child. 

“You might not see them every Sunday // In that little white clapboard church // ‘Cause she’ll be serving biscuits and honey // He’ll be in overalls and tractor dirt // I bet my last dime, they’ll both take the time // To talk to the man upstairs // For a real life, red, white, and blue collared prayer.”

“Country Education,” “Roots” and “Who I’m From” each celebrate the upbringings that make Southerners, and Craig Morgan, who they are. While “Roots” is a twangy celebration of the raising that formed him, “Who I’m From” is a tale of who he is and who he came from. It’s a unique spin on the typical hometown song, celebrating those who have influenced his life.

The album’s title track is an especially catchy and jubilant moment, name dropping the songs that accompany many of life’s biggest moments, ranging from “Sweet Home Alabama” to “Ring of Fire” to “Hotel California.”

For Craig Morgan, American Soundtrack represents the best of who he is as an artist and a person. “I hope these songs create positive energy,” shares the Tennessee native. “I want people to feel inspired. I want people to laugh and enjoy what we do, but I also hope it makes them feel motivated to do good, to live a good life and to be kind. I believe we should live our lives in accordance with God’s truth; in honesty, fairness, kindness, love, and generosity. When you are doing all those things everything else will just fall into place.”

American Soundtrack Tracklist:

  1. American Soundtrack (Craig Morgan, Phil O’Donnell, Dan Couch)
  2. Roots (Craig Morgan, Phil O’Donnell, Rob Pennington)
  3. God’s Problems (Phil O’Donnell, Wade Kirby, Carlo Colasacco, Styles Haury)
  4. Country Education (Craig Morgan, Phil O’Donnell, Wade Kirby)
  5. Blue Collar Prayer (Craig Morgan, Phil O’Donnell, Matt Willis)
  6. Who I’m From (Craig Morgan, Phil O’Donnell, Chris Wallin, Ira Dean)

*Produced by Phil O’Donnell and Craig Morgan

Craig-morgan-american-soundtrack

Craig Morgan shares latest project, ‘American Soundtrack,’ out now on all streaming platforms.

Fans can join our Weekly Round-Up e-newsletter here, for the latest in country music and more news about upcoming Craig Morgan announcements and releases.

To keep up with Craig Morgan, follow him on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

American Soundtrack is available everywhere you buy or stream music. Take a listen below and check out more new recently released tunes on our ‘New Country Music’ playlist. Be sure to give the playlist a follow for your weekly new country music fix.

kip-moore-solitary-tracks

Kip Moore: ‘Solitary Tracks’ Album Review

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Kip Moore releases his new album, Solitary Tracks, officially out now, February 28th on all streaming platforms. Learn more and listen to the new album below.

With his soulful rasp and unique approach to music, Kip Moore has been a mainstay in country music for nearly fifteen years. Now, he’s releasing his most unique and ambitious project thus far, a 23-track collection that truly takes listeners on a journey. On Solitary Tracks, out now, the singer-songwriter offers a collection that finds him stepping outside any preconceived notions and embracing who he is as an artist.

“I’ve gotten to a place where I just don’t give a f**k about [the Nashville optics],” Moore revealed in a statement. “A lot of times I feel like I’m walking this plank. I’ve got people that believe in me and they’re really good to me – but at the end of the day, I know I’m going to walk out on that plank by myself.”

In taking that leap, the Georgia native wrote or co-wrote all but one of the album’s tracks, exploring various sides of his personality and experiences. He enlisted co-writers including Brett James, Nathan Chapman, Kristian Bush, Jaren Johnston, Casey Beathard, and others to craft a story of love, growth, ambition, and so much more.. 

“I’m never going to cheat by just trying to write what I think people want to hear, or hold onto a sound that worked for me,” shares Moore. “I’m going to always be authentic with myself, with every record, and all I ever hope is that people find a little solace. This project is a journey in itself, so I hope it helps people navigate their own life. There’s no pattern you have to follow, and sometimes you gotta gamble on yourself. You gotta be bold enough to trust your gut, and willing to roll those dice if you believe in something.”

The album opens with “High Hopes,” a fitting title for what kicks off an epic listening experience. With its lush guitars and Moore’s unmistakable voice, it builds to an anthemic chorus as he explores where he’s been, where he is, and where he’s going. “It’s me unpacking in real time where I’m at right now – and for the first time, saying goodbye to it,” he explains.

Although the album starts on an uptempo note, ballads definitely dominate the first half of the collection, ranging from the solo written “Solitary Tracks” to the stunning “Pretty Horses,” which allows Moore to show off his emotive uniqueness. Meanwhile, the album’s titular track builds up to a booming chorus about a pair of outsiders in love who just can’t seem to make it work. “Someday maybe we’ll recross paths…Ain’t never been the ones to run with the pack, just a couple lone wolves making solitary tracks,” he croons.

Two of the immediate standouts on the LP are “Around You” and “Bad Spot,” telling two very different stories. The former is a single-worthy and snappy earworm, dedicated to being unable to resist someone in all the best ways. Alternatively, “Bad Spot,” hits like a late night voice mail and is the only song not co-written by Moore. Written by Beathard, it’s a melodic midtempo that finds him admitting his mistakes and hoping to move on from them with the woman he loves.

“I hit a little rough patch, some rocky road // A stretch of life that took its toll // Next thing I know, you’re breakin’ up on me // But I guess it took some goin’ there to get me here // Some growin’ up to make it clear // That old me in my mirror, he ain’t the guy you need // I know I don’t deserve another shot // But I’m in a better place, kinda like a call drop // Yeah, I lost you in a bad spot, yeah”

“Livin’ Side,” “Learning As I Go,” and “Straight Line Boots” each continue the Georgia native’s reformation, celebrating the steps he’s made to be a good man and the woman who has helped him get there. “You got me closer to a got it all together man, walking these straight line boots,” He sings. “’I’m a better man, baby, when I’m with you.”

“Flowers in December” is another special moment, a booming ballad that also marks one of Moore’s all-time favorite recordings. “I’ve always struggled with some of these things that I’m talking about, and I’ve had a tendency to carry them with me – even when I’m writing about trying to let it go,” he reveals. “But for the first time in my life, I don’t feel like I’m looking as much in the rear view.”     

Some of the album’s tracks find him in a place of nostalgia, with “Half Full Cup” celebrating “small town dreamers,” while “Like Ya Stole It” takes him back to the poignant lessons he learned while riding shotgun in a car. Likewise, “Southern Son” finds Moore embracing his Southern upbringing, while “Burn” finds him longing for simpler times and global peace.

“Live Here to Work” is another immediate standout, grabbing your attention with a roaring proclamation of “F**k that, I don’t live here to work!” It’s a mix of alt rock and country in the best way possible, segueing into a blistering guitar solo as he shuns that 9 to 5 lifestyle.

“Love & War” is a driving and catchy uptempo that finds the singer-songwriter proclaiming that “All is fair in love and war,” while “Good Things Never Last” is a soulful and bluesy rompy that shows off a totally new and unexpected side to Moore’s voice.

The album wraps with the one-two punch of “Take What You Can Get,” a breezy and optimistic look ahead, and “Only Me,” a rootsy pop-country search for kindred spirits. It’s a fitting closing note for Solitary Tracks, finding Moore no longer a lone wolf,  but instead, in search of a new pack.

For Kip Moore, Solitary Tracks represents a transformation of both an artist and a man, and the result is a powerful and sometimes unexpected collection that is sure to delight old and new fans alike.

Country Swag Picks:

  1. Around You
  2. Live to Work
  3. Bad Spot
  4. Flowers in December
  5. Learning As I Go

Solitary Tracks Track List:

  1. High Hopes (Kip Moore/Dave Nassie/Zach Ziemer)
  2. Solitary Tracks (Kip Moore/Dan Couch/Brett James)
  3. Pretty Horses (Kip Moore/Nathan Chapman/Blair Daily)
  4. Livin’ Side (Kip Moore/Dan Couch/Kristian Bush)
  5. Around You (Kip Moore/Jaren Johnston/Casey Beathard)
  6. Half Full Cup (Kip Moore/Jaren Johnston/Casey Beathard)
  7. Bad Spot (Casey Beathard)
  8. Straight Line Boots (Kip Moore/Jaren Johnston/Casey Beathard)
  9. Rivers Don’t Run (Kip Moore/Jaren Johnston/Casey Beathard)
  10. Burn (Kip Moore/Jaren Johnston/Casey Beathard)
  11. Like Ya Stole It (Kip Moore/Jaren Johnston/Casey Beathard)
  12. Southern Son (Kip Moore/Dan Couch/Will Lynde/Morgan Evans)
  13. Learning As I Go (Kip Moore/Dan Couch/Luke Preston/Oscar Charles)
  14. Alley Cat (Kip Moore/Dan Couch)
  15. Live Here to Work (Kip Moore)
  16. Love And War (Kip Moore/Erich Wigdahl/Manny Medina/Dave Nassie)
  17. Flowers In December (Kip Moore/Erich Wigdahl)
  18. Forever is a Lie (Kip Moore/Will Lynde/Erich Wigdahl)
  19. Wildfire (Kip Moore/Dan Couch/Oscar Charles/Hank Born)
  20. Tough Enough (Kip Moore/Brett James)
  21. Good Things Never Last (Kip Moore/Casey Beathard)
  22. Take What You Can Get (Kip Moore/Dan Couch/Luke Preston/Oscar Charles)
  23. Only Me (Kip Moore/Oscar Charles/Luke Preston/Dan Couch)
kip-moore-solitary-tracks

Kip Moore shares his latest album, ‘Solitary Tracks,’ out now on all streaming platforms.

Fans can join our Weekly Round-Up e-newsletter here, for the latest in country music and more news about future Kip Moore releases.

For tour dates and more, visit his website here. To keep up with Kip Moore, follow him on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook

Solitary Tracks is available everywhere you buy or stream music. Take a listen below and check out more new recently released music here on our ‘New Country Music’ playlist. Be sure to give the playlist a follow for your weekly new country music fix.

chase-matthew-chase

Chase Matthew: ‘CHASE’ – Album Review

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Chase Matthew releases his third studio album, CHASE, out now, February 21st, on all streaming platforms. Listen to the brand new project here.

With a unique sound and an incredible story, Chase Matthew has quickly become one of Nashville’s fastest rising stars. On his third album, the simply titled CHASE, Matthew continues to perfect his own brand of country music.

For the Nashville native and Warner Music artist, CHASE represents the next logical step in his career, showing his growth as both a singer and songwriter. The album features thirteen new songs, nine of which Matthew wrote or co-wrote. Other writers on the album include some of the genre’s biggest names, including Brock Berryhill, Ashley Gorley, Michael Tyler, Parker Welling, and more.

Throughout CHASE, Matthew samples hip hop beats, rock guitars, country riffs, and radio-ready pop in a way that somehow works perfectly. Much like megastars Kane Brown, Sam Hunt, and Jason Aldean, Chase Matthew has crafted a uniquely single-ready sound.

The album opens with the earwormy “Drives My Truck,” a catchy and roaring ode to a girl who looks even more attractive behind the wheel of his favorite truck. It’s the perfect opening track, immediately grabbing a listener and setting up what’s to come.

“She’s burning that gas, smoking those tires // Setting this old boy’s heart on fire // She gets me just like it, all jacked up // My baby drives me crazy when she drives my truck”

“Waiting On You” and “No Name Roads” follow similar suit, catchy lyrics over radio-ready melodies that are sure to make Matthew a huge star. “Missin’ Me Missin’ You” is also pop-country perfection, finding him committed to being someone’s ex and not turning back to the relationship.

One of the album’s immediate standouts is “Heart Half Empty,” featuring Lauren Alaina. On the gorgeous breakup ballad, the pair channel some of the greatest duets of all time, trading verses over their broken hearts.

“Need you after one too many // Three shots to try forgetting // All the reasons we didn’t work out//  Getting lost in the whiskey cloud//  I’m sure I’ll be back tomorrow // Still drinking about what we used to be //  With a glass half full // But a heart half empty “

Breakups are definitely a prevalent theme on CHASE, weaving through songs like “Backroads of my Mind,” “You Turn,” and “I Don’t Wanna Know.” While the latter is a hip-hop inspired dedication to ignorance being bliss, “Backroads” is a driving and catchy country-rock anthem.

“You’re tearing up the backroads of my mind //  Your memory’s driving me crazy //  And ever since the night we said goodbye //  It’s all I think about baby //  I see you at every turn, every light,  Every inch of outskirt, red dirt, we’d ride // You cross my heart like a county line // You’re tearin’ up the backroads of my mind.”

While Matthew is definitely a superstar on uptempo tracks, his heart and talent are on full display on some of the album’s slower and more introspective moments. “Driving Through My Hometown” is a gorgeous piece of nostalgia that finds the young songwriter traveling through his hometown and musing over the memories there. Likewise, “If I Had Wings” finds him longing for wings to pay a special visit to Heaven.

Likewise, “Sunday Clothes” finds him sitting in a pew, heartbreakingly mourning the unexpected loss of a friend. Lyrically, it’s stunning, evoking images of a young man lost and filled with loss. “Here sitting in a front row pew, Tears raining on these old boots, Suffocating in a collared shirt,  While I’m waiting to carry you out of this church,” He sings. “Man, we shouldn’t be here today, You got me cussing in and out of this place, You’ve been saying this is where I need to go, But Saturdays ain’t made for Sunday clothes.“

The album ends with “No Way Around It,” a driving uptempo about the struggle that comes with trying to move on after a breakup. “If there was a you fix, I woulda found it,” He growls, unable to find closure. “But I’m going through it, cause there ain’t no way around it.“ It’s the perfect bookend to “Drives My Truck,” ending the album on a high note similar to the way it began.

Country Swag Picks:

  1. Heart Half Empty featuring Lauren Alaina
  2. No Way Around It
  3. No Name Roads
  4. Drives My Truck

CHASE Tracklist:

  1. Drives My Truck (Chase Matthew, Brock Berryhill, Taylor Phillips)
  2. Missin’ Me Missin’ You (Chase Matthew, Brock Berryhill, Taylor Phillips, Lydia Vaughan)
  3. Heart Half Empty (feat. Lauren Alaina) (Chase Matthew, Austin Shawn, Matt McVaney, Bailey Manns, Noah West, Shaylen Carroll)
  4. No Name Roads (Chase Matthew, Casey Brown, Taylor Phillips, Ashley Gorley, Travis Wood)
  5. I Don’t Wanna Know (Victor Williams, Fraser Churchill, Danny Majić, Willie Morrison)
  6. Fire In Her Eyes (Chase Matthew, Gabe Foust, Graham Barham, Beau Bailey, Jacob Hackworth)
  7. Driving Through My Hometown (Jacob Hackworth, Chris Tompkins, Michael Tyler, Blake Bollinger)
  8. If I Had Wings (Chase Matthew, Alexander Palmer)
  9. You Turn (Chase Matthew, Rotundo, Rose Falcon, Brian Bunn)
  10. Waiting On You To Call (Chase Matthew)
  11. Backroads Of My Mind (Parker Welling, Casey Brown, Garrett Nichols, Colton Pack, Zach Beeken)
  12. Sunday Clothes (Chase Matthew, Taylor Phillips, Josh Phillips, Brock Berryhill, Kim Penz, Rotundo)
  13. No Way Around It (Jacob Hackworth, Will Bundy, Michael Tyler)
chase-matthew-chase

Chase Matthew shares new album, ‘CHASE’ out now on all streaming platforms.

Fans can join our Weekly Round-Up e-newsletter here, for the latest in country music and more news about future Chase Matthew releases.

To keep up with Chase Matthew, follow him on Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, and Facebook.

CHASE is available everywhere you buy or stream music. Take a listen below and check out more new recently released music on our ‘New Country Music’ playlist. Be sure to give the playlist a follow for your weekly new country music fix.