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Mitchell Tenpenny: ‘The Low Light Sessions’ – EP Review

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Mitchell Tenpenny’s The Low Light Sessions EP features eight new tracks that take listeners on a journey from where he was to where he is now. Listen to the new music and check out our full review here.

For Mitchell Tenpenny, The Low Light Sessions EP, out today, April 15, marks a special release. Featuring eight new tracks, all co-written by the dynamic singer-songwriter, the collection includes songs he’s held on to for years. For listeners, the music will take you on a journey from where Tenpenny was when he wrote the opening track to where he is now.

“My fans are so good to me and react quickly each time I put out new music,” shared Tenpenny in a statement. “I’ve held onto these songs as I didn’t want them to get overshadowed in some of the other recent projects. I wanted to wait until I was in a good place with my life, and I feel I’m strong enough to share them now. I was a different person then and it feels good to look back and know I’ve come through that dark time.”

The project opens with the previously-released “Horseshoes and Hand Grenades,” a clever take on the old adage of being oh-so-close to something. Here, the Nashville native is so close to love, but not quite there. 

“I guess we were just as close as a first kiss // Closer to God when you’re down on your knees and praying // Yeah, close like a secret, you swore you would keep // But somehow you let it slip away // So close you can feel, it hurts when it’s real // ‘Cause the other don’t feel the same // Guess close only counts in horseshoes and hand grenades”

Songs like “Dear Jesus” and “Mama Raised the Hell Out of Me” show Tenpenny contemplative and exploring his spiritual side, fighting not to “let the devil win the war.” On “Mama Raised the Hell Out of Me,” Tenpenny admits that he’s struggled with his own demons, but that it’s his mama to thank for the way he turned out. “There’s a lot of whiskey bottles and skeletons, I broke more hearts than the strings on my guitar,” He admits. “The devil only knows, the sinner I would be, but mama raised the hell out of me.”

For Tenpenny, much of the Low Light Sessions finds the introspective singer-songwriter grappling with failed and potential relationships. On “Don’t Make Me Choose,” he admits that he’s a walking contradiction, loving both life on the road and being home with his someone special. “We both got something the other one needs,” He concedes as he explores the woman that’s the yin to his yang, the saint to his sinner. He also worries that he’ll be forced to choose between love and his career, pleading “Don’t make me choose.”

“My Next Sad Song” finds him reflecting on a woman that was sure to break his heart, while “I Can’t Get Another You” is a soulful ballad that finds him contemplating lost love. He may be able to replace a lot of things in his life, but the one that got away is irreplaceable. 

“I Know Something She Don’t Know” is one of the collection’s highlights, a mid-tempo track that builds in the best way as Tenpenny prepares to end a relationship. Here, he enjoys one more special night, knowing that it’s all ending in the morning. The track offers a different perspective on the classic breakup song, twinged with a bittersweet mood as he prepares to be the one breaking a heart. “I ain’t saying we ain’t right,” he croons. “But we ain’t right, right now.”

Despite all the heartbreak Tenpenny endured, the EP concludes with romance. “The Way You Are,” penned solely by Tenpenny is something special. With only a sparse musical accompaniment, Tenpenny’s R&B-hinted tone has never sounded better than on this romantic ballad. “Good Morning sunshine, how did you sleep?” He sings to the woman in his arms. “Was your dream as good as mine // I guess I’m still in the middle of it.”

Since the release of “Drunk Me,” Mitchell Tenpenny has been one of country music’s most consistent hit makers. However, The Low Light Sessions is truly a special release, sharing more of the singer-songwriter’s heart. While radio hits are very likely here, the EP also serves to further share Tenpenny’s story and his depth as a songwriter.

The Low Light Sessions EP Tracklist:

  1. Horseshoes and Hand Grenades (Mitchell Tenpenny, Dallas Wilson) 
  2. Dear Jesus (Mitchell Tenpenny, Andy Albert, Thomas Archer) 
  3. Mama Raised the Hell Out of Me (Mitchell Tenpenny, Jaren Johnston, Zach Kale) 
  4. My Next Sad Song (Mitchell Tenpenny, Joe Fox, Brandon Paddock, Geoff Warburton) 
  5. I Know Something She Don’t Know (Mitchell Tenpenny, Dallas Wilson) 
  6. I Can’t Get Another You (Mitchell Tenpenny, Brent Anderson, Thomas Archer) 
  7. Don’t Make Me Choose (Mitchell Tenpenny, Dallas Wilson, Claire Douglas) 
  8. The Way You Are (Mitchell Tenpenny)
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Mitchell Tenpenny’s new EP, ‘The Low Light Sessions’ is out now.

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

Mitchell Tenpenny will be appearing alongside Chris Young at the Long Island Community Hospital Amphitheater on May 28. He’ll also be joining Luke Bryan’s Raised Up Right tour this summer and will be a part of the Tidalwave Festival in Atlantic City on August 12.

To keep up with Mitchell Tenpenny, follow him on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter. 

The Low Light Sessions EP is now 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.

chayce-beckham-ep

Chayce Beckham: ‘Doin’ It Right’ – EP Review

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Chayce Beckham’ debut EP, Doin’ It Right, is out now, April 15th on all streaming platforms. Listen to the brand new project below and check out our full review.

After winning season 19 of American Idol, Chayce Beckham released a handful of original songs, including his coronation song, “23,” and a steamy duet with labelmate Lindsay Ell. Today, April 15, the gravel-voiced singer-songwriter and 2022 Country Swag Artist to Watch releases his debut EP, Doin’ It Right, with BBR Music Group/Wheelhouse Records. 

For Beckham, the six song collection reflects his growth since winning the television show, his time spent in Nashville, and the story of the everyman. “Since my season on American Idol, I’ve been busy in Nashville writing songs and touring,” says Beckham in a statement. “I tested these songs in front of live audiences last year, and now I’m so excited to have them recorded and ready for you to listen to. I’m really proud of these songs, and I believe they not only tell my story, but they tell stories relatable to everyone going through everyday life.”

Beckham co-wrote four of the EP’s six tracks, and enlisted an army of Nashville’s biggest names to complete the project. Writers featured here include the likes of Ross Copperman, Josh Osborne, Will Hoge, Ben Hayslip, Hillary Lindsay, and more.

Opening with “Where the River Goes,” the California native immediately sets the stage for the collection with this twangy and laid back tune. Here, he’s ready to leave his troubles behind and spend some time lost out in nature. He’s escaping it all, as he proclaims, “I’m going where the river goes // Where I’ll end up // Nobody knows.”

A common theme of the EP is living life and living it well, which weaves its way through tracks including “Doin’ It Right” and previously released, “Tell Me Twice.” On the EP’s vibrant title track, Beckham proclaims that life is about enjoying the small moments. Meanwhile, “Tell Me Twice” is one of the album’s clear highlights. On the introspective ode to enjoying the simpler things in life, Beckham’s voice soars over slide guitar and stunning female background vocals. “You know how it goes, after every low comes a high,” He proclaims. “That’s life // You better hold on // And hold on tight // You don’t have to tell me twice.”

“I’ll Take the Bar” finds Beckham struggling with the aftermath of a breakup in a small town. Lyrically, the track is a brilliant variation on the typical drinking breakup song. Written solely by Jordan Walker, the slow burning ballad builds as Beckham is ready to drown his sorrows over the woman who left him. Here, he cleverly divides their town, “There’s gotta be a way to split up this town // It might sound crazy, baby, but hear me out // I’ll take the backroads // You take Main Street // You can have the steak house // I’ll take the Dairy Queen,” He proposes. “Yeah you take care of yourself // I’ll take what’s left of my heart // Baby you take it easy // And I’ll take it hard // You take off // And I’ll take the bar.”

The EP ends with the explosively catchy “Love to Burn,” an intoxicating uptempo that’s sure to highlight the singer-songwriter’s live shows. With its building chorus and anthemic lyrics, “Love to Burn” sounds like an immediate hit and ends the EP on a glorious high note.

When Chayce Beckham took to social media to announce this project, he shared that there was something for everyone on it, and that couldn’t be more accurate. “I worked so hard writing these songs and there’s even a couple on there I didn’t write, and I’m so honored I got to be the artist to record them. After a long day at work, I hope y’all can roll your windows down and listen to this EP track for track and just feel good,” he writes. “There’s a breakup song, a where I’m from song, a love song, a river song, I tried to put all the vibes in one place for ya.”

While the EP may be named after its title track, it’s safe to say that when it comes to his new music, Chayce Beckham is definitely “doin’ it right.”

Doin’ It Right Track Listing:
1. “Where The River Goes” (Chayce Beckham, Brice Long, Ben Hayslip, Jacob Rice)*
2. “Doin’ It Right” (Chayce Beckham, Andy Albert, Lindsay Rimes)^
3. “Tell Me Twice” (Chayce Beckham, Isley Juber, Ross Copperman)*
4. “I’ll Take The Bar” (Jordan Walker)*
5. “Talk To Me” (Hillary Lindsey, Will Hoge, Tom Douglas)*
6. “Love To Burn” (Chayce Beckham, Ross Copperman, Josh Osborne)*

chayce-beckham-ep

Chayce Beckham’s brand new debut EP, ‘Doin’ It Right’ is out now.

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

Chayce Beckham will be supporting Jimmie Allen on his Down Home Tour, with a stop at New Jersey’s Starland Ballroom on May 14. Tickets available here

To keep up with Chayce Beckham, follow him on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

Doin’ It Right EP is now 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.

Caitlyn Smith: ‘High’ – Album Review

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Caitlyn Smith’s brand new album, High, is out now, April 8th on all streaming platforms. Listen to the brand new music below and check out our full review.

Caitlyn Smith is a singer-songwriter who personifies artistry. She is a uniquely talented songstress, who believes in having a hand in every part of her craft. Today, the artist releases her newest album, High.

Smith’s third album is one of her best records to date. Featuring eight tracks, the singer-songwriter knows what kind of music she wants to create. Moreover, this is the singer’s first time producing every song on the album. “Self-producing has taught me so much about trusting my own compass,” says Smith. “It has been a beautifully terrifying experience and has added a layer of vulnerability when you’re also responsible for painting the sonic landscape as an artist, in addition to writing and singing the songs.”

The record kicks off with an introduction that moves into her version of the song she wrote for Miley Cyrus, “High.” Because of how much Smith loved “High,” it was important for her to release her version of the track. Smith’s rendition is piercing, haunting, and vocally driven. With more instrumentals than Cyrus’ version, the songstress brings a whole new life to the already incredible song.

Next up is “Dreamin’s Free” and “Good As Us.” The former is a whimsical song about how important it is to believe in your dreams. Written by Smith with prolific songwriters, Shane McAnally and Lori McKenna. In the song, the vocalist opens up about how hard it has been to keep her dreams alive throughout her career.

The latter song, “Good As Us,” uses imagery in a new way. The song screams romance and nostalgia in a unique way. Similarly, on “Downtown Baby” Smith paints a picture of what love and romance truly looks like in her mind. The song is fun and provides a much-needed moment on the album.

Smith continues to show off her incredible ear for music on the next two tracks, “Nothing Against You” and “Maybe In Another Life.” On “Nothing Against You,” Smith’s emotions are palpable. It is clear she knows what yearning and hurt feel like. Despite it all, she knows love conquers all. “Maybe In Another Life” describes those same feelings, but instead of working out, the relationship is just not meant to be. Although the love was not “evergreen,” the moments were worth it.

The record ends with the mesmerizing song, “I Don’t Like The World Without You.” It is hard to describe how incredible this song truly is. Like the rest of the record, Smith proves that she is an artist that we all should pay attention to. High is a quiet masterpiece with captivating stories and relatable emotions laced throughout.

High Tracklist:

  1. High – Intro
  2. High
  3. Dreamin’s Free
  4. Good As Us
  5. Downtown Baby
  6. Nothing Against You
  7. Maybe In Another Life
  8. I Don’t Like The World Without You
caitlyn-smith-high-album

Caitlyn Smith’s new album ‘High’ is 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 and announcements about future Caitlyn Smith releases.

To keep up with Caitlyn Smith, follow her on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter.

High is now 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.

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Cole Swindell: ‘Stereotype’ – Album Review

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Cole Swindell’s brand new album, Stereotype, is out now, April 8th on all streaming platforms. Listen to the brand new music below and check out our full review.

After four years, Cole Swindell has released his fourth studio album, Stereotype. Filled with heartbreak and love, this is one of Swindell’s most passionate and personal projects to date.

When you look up the word stereotype in the dictionary, it is defined as a “simplified and standardized conception or image invested with special meaning and held in common by members of a group”. On this album, Swindell wants us to see that there is more to people then who society labels them as.

He does a great job starting with the title track.  Written by Swindell, Michael Hardy and Jordan Schmidt, “Stereotype” is upbeat and about falling in love with a country girl who has many different layers to her. “Girl Gone Crazy” shares a similar message. Accompanied by crisp guitar solos, it reminds you that everyone is going through something, and you can’t judge them for their actions. We’ve all done something out of character and that shouldn’t be who we are defined as.

“Save your psychopath and don’t judge that black dress book by the tear straight cover girl // Cause she’s a small town mama lovin’ settle down house on a hill and raise up a couple of babies // She’s living proof that some stupid boys the only reason a girl goes crazy”.

From breaking stereotypes to falling in love, Swindell allows us to see a vulnerable side of him. Pouring his heart and powerful vocals into ballad tracks “I’m Gonna Let Her” and “Some Habits,” you can tell that he is genuinely happy and ready to take the next steps in his relationship. 

The singer-songwriter also reminds us that not every relationship lasts and everyone goes through a heartbreak.   “How is She” is one of the most heartfelt breakup songs out there. It’s about asking how your ex is doing so well while you are still coping with a broken heart.

“How is she making friends, making rent // I gotta know // How is she doing fine, smiling in all her pictures // How is she getting drunk and not sending one damn I miss ya”

It’s no secret that the Georgia Native is a huge 90’s country fan as he always showcases his love with a set during his live shows. The track “She Had Me At Heads Carolina” honors that along with Jo Dee Messina’s song, “Heads California, Tails California”. It’s about falling in love with a girl who sings this at karaoke and has a love for 90s country. The guitar, drums, and lyrics will have you up and dancing every time you hit play.

“Every Beer” is a reminder that these past couple of years have been tough on everyone and has really opened your eyes to enjoy every moment of what you have. This song reminds you to live in the moment, take that trip, live with no regrets.

“Call your momma // See the world // Get the tattoo // Kiss the girl // Count your blessings // Thank your stars”

Swindell certainly knows how to pick artists to accompany him on his music. Teaming up with fellow artist and award-winning songwriter, HARDY for “Down to the Bar”, the two show us how to get over a broken heart with a few drinks. While they may not sing conjointly, the two still fit well together alternating with each verse and chorus.  They are the perfect duo and we would join them for a drink anytime! He also teamed up with fellow award-winning artist Lainey Wilson for their duet “Never Say Never”. While they have their own unique voices, their vocals blend together perfectly creating a hit. It’s no wonder it is quickly climbing the charts.

Closing out the album, “Walk on Whiskey” is one of the purest, most honest songs about coping with losing a loved one. Swindell lost his mom in September, and he pours out his emotions in this beautiful acoustic track. It shares a heartfelt message of while the people who mean the most to you can’t be here forever, they’ll always be watching over you.

Stereotype is filled with so many incredible songs including number one song “Single Saturday Night”. You can tell that this album means a lot to Swindell and he put his blood, sweat, and tears into it. It was certainly worth the four-year wait.

Stereotype Tracklist:

  1. Stereotype
  2. Every Beer
  3. Never Say Never (Cole Swindell & Lainey Wilson)
  4. She Had Me At Heads Carolina
  5. Sayin’ You Love Me
  6. I’m Gonna Let Her
  7. Down To The Bar (feat. HARDY)
  8. How Is She
  9. Miss Whatever
  10. Single Saturday Night
  11. Some Habits
  12. Girl Goes Crazy
  13. Walk On Whiskey
Cole-swindell-new-album

Cole Swindell’s new album ‘Stereotype’ is out now.

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

To keep up with Cole Swindell follow him on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

Stereotype is now 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.

Thomas-rhett-new-album-where-we-started

Thomas Rhett: ‘Where We Started’ – Album Review

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Thomas Rhett gives fans even more new music with his brand new album, Where We Started, out now, April 1st, on all streaming platforms. Check out our full review and listen to the new album below.

For Thomas Rhett, Where We Started, out today, April 1, is the follow up to 2021’s Country Again: Side A. Yet, despite what one would think, Rhett promises that this new collection isn’t Side B. Ahead of the release, we chatted with Rhett to learn about what to expect from the project. Check out 5 things he shared here. 

After writing somewhere between 150 to 200 songs in the last few years, the singer admits that things didn’t go quite as he had originally intended when it came to his new release. Rhett recalls that after going into the studio with Jon Bellion, Jesse Frasure, and Ashley Gorley, things changed as they wrote the title track. “It kinda started becoming a different project,” he admitted in a recent interview. “It started becoming not what I thought Country Again: Side B…not what I wanted it to be.”

Instead, he says, the album became a versatile collection with something for every listener, every mood, and every feeling. There are funky up-tempos, dreamy love songs, and unexpected collaborations. One of those collaborations is with Katy Perry on the LP’s title track, which serves as the album’s closing moment. The beat-laden song is perfect for a pop crossover, as the starry-eyed lovers trade verses about the early days of a relationship at its crossroads.

“Those days when you’re brokenhearted // And you get knocked down and you say you don’t know // How far we’re going to go // Just look at that road // And think about where we started // Keep your eyes on me // ‘Cause talk is cheap // We’re all we need // Darling I know // How far we’re gonna go // Just look about that road // And think about where we started.”

Other collaborations include “Half of Me” with Riley Green, and the previously-released “Death Row,” featuring Tyler Hubbard and Russell Dickerson. The latter was inspired by the trio’s visit to a men’s prison, where they played songs for prisoners on death row. Written by Rhett, Zach Crowell, and Ashley Gorley, the song deals with the trio reflecting on their perspective-altering visit, remarking “I learned a lot about living // From those men out on death row.”

Meanwhile, “Half of Me” is easily one of the collection’s purest country tracks, a simple ode to wanting a cold beer that has hints of early Joe Nichols or Blake Shelton. Of his decision to enlist Green, Rhett admits that the pair have become great friends, and that “he was the perfect dude for the song.” Rhett first began teasing the song out on tour last summer, watch a video below of an early performance of the song.

The album’s opener is the introspective “The Hill,” interestingly the only song on Where We Started that wasn’t co-penned by Rhett. Written by Lori McKenna, Jordan Reynolds, and Emily Weisband, it deals with the proverbial hill that we sometimes choose to die on. Rhett has conviction here, and although he can be stubborn sometimes, he realizes what’s important and that’s the love of his wife. “Not every battle’s worth it // I’ll admit where I’ve gone wrong,” He sings. “But fighting for your love // That’s the hill I want to die on.”

Rhett celebrates the simpler things in life on songs like “Bass Pro Hat,” “Anything Cold,” “Paradise,” and “Slow Down Summer.” “Anything Cold” is the perfect track for hitting the beach this summer, as Rhett doesn’t care what he’s drinking as long as it’s cold with alcohol. Meanwhile, “Slow Down Summer” is an appreciation for summer love and the desire to hold on to it for as long as possible. 

“Church Boots” has hints of “Fancy Like” that make it ripe for a TikTok dance, and a perfect earworm for radio. The click-clack of a track celebrates a pair of boots that are perfect for any occasion. More than just simple footwear, these boots are truly a part of his story. “They’re all scuffed up just like me // Tell a little story ‘bout my history,” he sings. “Go straight from the farm to the bar to the back row pew // Yeah my work boots // Are my church boots.” 

On songs like “Angels,” “Paradise,” “Simple as a Song,” and “Mama’s Front Door,” Rhett celebrates the special love he shares with his wife, Lauren. On “Paradise,” he recalls that being with her is equivalent to paradise, while “Mama’s Front Door” talks about all of the pivotal moments in a relationship that have happened on her mama’s porch. 

Meanwhile, when it comes to ballads, “Angels” is a clear highlight of the album, building through the powerful chorus as Rhett recalls all the mistakes he’s made, wondering how an angel of a woman stayed by his side. “You shoulda slammed the door // Changed the lock //And said, adios to my selfish heart // Tore it apart and left me alone // Don’t know why you were patient // And wasted good savin’ on me // Maybe angels don’t always have wings.” Check out the video below of Rhett performing the swoon-worthy track. 

For Thomas Rhett, Where We Started may not have been the album he originally intended to make, but perhaps, turned out the way it was always meant to. Despite its name, Where We Started is less about where it began, and more about the journey to where it ended up. With a versatile collection of tracks, there truly is something for every listener here. 

Where We Started Tracklist:

  1. The Hill
  2. Church Boots
  3. Bass Pro Hat
  4. Anything Cold
  5. Angels
  6. Half Of Me ft. Riley Green
  7. Bring The Bar
  8. Paradise
  9. Death Row ft. Tyler Hubbard & Russell Dickerson
  10. Mama’s Front Door
  11. Slow Down Summer
  12. Simple As A Song
  13. Us Someday
  14. Somebody Like Me
  15. Where We Started (Thomas Rhett & Katy Perry)
Thomas-rhett-new-album

Thomas Rhett’s brand new album, ‘Where We Started’ is out now, April 1st

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

To keep up with Thomas Rhett, follow him on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.

Where We Started 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.

erin-kinsey-ep

Erin Kinsey: ’40 East’ – EP Review

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Erin Kinsey’s debut EP, 40 East featuring the viral hit, “Just Drive,” is out today, March 25th on all streaming platforms. 40 East is sure to be the soundtrack to all your summer road trips. Listen to the brand new music below and check out our full review.

Drawing inspirations from the likes of Miranda Lambert and Taylor Swift, rising singer-songwriter Erin Kinsey is determined to make a splash in country music. For the 21-year-old Texas native, her debut EP, 40 East, is about showing listeners who she is, as both an artist and a person.

“Naming this debut EP ‘40 East’ is very special to me,” shares Kinsey in a statement. “Highway 40 East is the road that gets me most of the way from Texas to Nashville, and it’s a road I’ve driven many times since I started coming to town with my family, my boyfriend, my friends, and Chewy (my dog). All of these songs, and this project, are a reflection of my life up until now, and one of the biggest parts of my story is chasing this crazy dream of mine. What I didn’t know, is that 40 East was taking me to so many of my dreams coming true, including this EP.”

Kinsey moved to Nashville at the age of 17 and began working on her craft. It paid off quickly with the viral hit and first release from the EP, “Just Drive.” The twangy and romantic mid-tempo tells the tale of a girl and a boy who don’t need to do anything fancy except drive around and listen to music. Inspired by a situation with her longtime boyfriend, Kinsey told Country Swag about her inspiration for that song in an exclusive interview. “He made a playlist and we were listening to it together,” she began of her longtime boyfriend on their way to a fancy date, “I remember about halfway there, a thought came into my mind of just like I wish it was further away because I’m having so much fun with him driving around.”

Likewise, “This Ain’t Heaven” talks about finding solace in someone’s arms. On the up-tempo, she admits that she’s “so caught up in the way, your arms wrapped around me,” that she’s convinced she’s found heaven on Earth. Meanwhile, she finds home with someone special on the airy and ethereal “I Got You.”

“And I got the Texas sky // When I look into your eyes // It’s like I never left,” She sings. “If home is where the heart is // I can’t lose // ‘Cause I got you // Boy, I got you // Turns out it doesn’t matter where we are // The best part of home // Still holds my heart.”

On “Hate This Hometown,” Kinsey wants to leave her hometown behind her, but she just can’t. Once again, her special someone is tied to every street and every moment in this town in a way that just brings back the best memories. While most songs about hometowns are filled with nostalgia or bad memories, Kinsey offers a clever twist on the usual trope. She can’t hate her hometown because he’s so intimately tied to it. She admits that she was ready to fly and leave the place in her rearview, but it’s impossible.

“It’s amazing what a little time and space can do to a place // When I drive down these roads // See you and me at 16 // When I never could know // Coming back would be so sweet // Every chance I wanna go now // Every memory makes me slow down // You make it hard // To hate this hometown”

“Better On Me” is the EP’s penultimate track, showing Kinsey’s sassy, moving-on-from-an-ex side. She may be returning his stuff here, but she’s feeling a tad bit petty in the best way possible.

“It looked better on me // You said that that faded green // Sure did bring out my eyes // And boy, I hate to agree // But it looked better on me // Hey, if it helps you sleep // Then I’m glad you got it back // Even though we both know that It looked better on me”

The 40 East EP is bookended with a radio edit of “Just Drive,” and we can’t wait to hear it on our favorite country stations. Erin Kinsey, a 2022 Country Swag Artist to Watch, is certainly a rising star, and we suspect that “Just Drive” is about to be her first of many hits, and the perfect soundtrack to all your summer road trips.

40 East EP Tracklist:

  1. “Just Drive” (Erin Kinsey, Michael August, Josh Ronen)
  2. “This Ain’t Heaven” (Erin Kinsey, Michael August, Josh Ronen)
  3. “I Got You” (Erin Kinsey, Barrett Baber, Lonnie Fowler)
  4. “Hate This Hometown” (Erin Kinsey, Dave Cohen, Kathleen Higgins)
  5. “Better On Me” (Erin Kinsey, Michael August, Josh Ronen)
  6. “Just Drive” (Radio Edit) (Erin Kinsey, Michael August, Josh Ronen)
erin-kinsey-ep

Erin Kinsey’s debut EP ’40 East’ is officially here!

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

To keep up with Erin Kinsey, follow her on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

40 East EP is now 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.

Austin Burke: ‘Changed Everything’ – EP Review

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Austin Burke’s brand new debut EP, Changed Everything is out now, March 25th on all streaming platforms. Listen to the brand new music below and check out our full review.

Every now and then, artists come out with EPs that truly give fans a look into their lives and their artistry. Singer-songwriter, Austin Burke’s latest project, Changed Everything fits the bill. The five-song project is one that country fans are going to want to listen to again and again.

The EP kicks off with the record’s title track. On “Changed Everything,” Burke professes that he is a better guy now. Similar to the vibes of “Man Enough Now” by Chris Bandi, the track is a perfect introduction in to the theme of the EP. Not to mention, it is also super catchy!

“Baby, I changed for the better // Got my shit together // Like you always wanted me to // I’m a little less screwed up // A little more grew up // Since I messed it up with you // I can’t take back your last goodbye // And the good Lord knows I’ve tried // ‘Cause, baby, I’ve changed everything // But your mind”

“Slow Kissin’ in a Fast Car” is another song that is full of imagery. Written by Burke with Joe Fox and Phil Barton, the singer leans into the rhythmic influences on this track. Lyrically, the song is romantic and freeing.

Next up, “Let It Burn” is a song that screams heartbreak. Instead of the typical “missing you” lyrics, Burke taps into a more mature side of ending a relationship. He shares what it’s like to realize that you are just not the right match. Even more, through the song, fans can feel the heartbreak, sadness, and maturity that is wrapped up in the unique song.

“No, I’m not sure how // How to say it // But I’m not sure if // We can save this // I know it’s not easy // To watch you slip away // But at the end of the day // You’re the best thing that ever happened to me // But I’m a lit match to your gasoline // You know some things they just ain’t meant to be”

On the contrary, on “I Don’t Care,” Burke pretends to not care about a break-up. Like many of us, the singer-songwriter expresses the feelings we all try to hide away after a break-up. Instead, we all pretend that we are doing just fine. The song is relatable, catchy, and one of our favorites off the EP.

The record culminates with the ultimate love song, “Even On A Bad Day.” Probably inspired by Burke’s marriage, the song is one that makes you believe in love. Without shying away from the lows in a relationship, the singer manages to get us all to accept the lows in favor of the incredible highs.

Overall Changed Everything is an incredible EP for Burke. His songwriting is on full display, proving that he can really write just about anything. Fans will definitely enjoy this project.

Changed Everything EP Tracklist:

  1. Changed Everything
  2. Slow Kissin’ in a Fast Car
  3. Let It Burn
  4. I Don’t Care
  5. Even On A Bad Day
Austin-burke-changed-everything-ep

Austin Burke’s debut EP, ‘Changed Everything’ is 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 and announcements about future Austin Burke releases.

To keep up with Austin Burke follow him on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.

Changed Everything EP is now 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.

maren-morris-new-album

Maren Morris: ‘Humble Quest’ – Album Review

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Maren Morris’ highly anticipated third studio album, Humble Quest is out now, March 25th on all streaming platforms. Check out our full review and listen to the new album below.

For Maren Morris, Humble Quest is more of a journey than a statement. She explores topics of love, motherhood, loss, friendship, and so much more. On the singer-songwriter’s third solo album, she takes listeners on a rollercoaster ride of her last two years as a new mom, a grieving friend, a devoted wife, a woman in country music, and so much more.

Produced by Greg Kurstin and featuring co-writes with Julia Michaels, Jimmy Robbins, Natalie Hemby, Laura Veltz, and more, the new collection finds Morris on a journey to define humility in her own ways. For the Texan chanteuse, the tracks on Humble Quest touch on the different things that ground her. Whether it’s motherhood on “Hummingbird,” friendship on “Good Friends,” love on “Background Music,” or loss on “What Would the World Do?”, there’s no subject off-limits here.

Husband and frequent collaborator, Ryan Hurd, appears throughout the album as a background vocalist, a co-writer, and a muse. “He was my closest and best writing partner during lockdown,” Morris reveals to People. “Writing songs with each other is fun, but it’s not the only thing that ties us together. It’s a bonus.”

Hurd’s influence is heard on songs like “I Can’t Love You Anymore,” “Tall Guys,” and “Background Music.” While the latter is a slow burn of a romantic ballad written with Hurd in mind, Morris shows her clever and sarcastic side on both “Tall Guys” and “I Can’t Love You Anymore.”

“Tall Guys” celebrates men of a certain stature that “keep her looking up// when I’m feeling down.” With her tongue firmly placed in her cheek, she sings that she’s “a lover of all types, but there’s something about tall guys.” Meanwhile, “I Can’t Love You” is a folksy, yet piano-hinted track crafted perfectly by Morris and co. In a clever lyrical twist, the singer-songwriter admits “I can’t love you anymore// Than I do now.” She amusingly laments that she doesn’t know what she did to deserve Hurd, a man so good-looking that it makes her sick. For Morris, Hurd is the “angel to her devil, the pot to her kettle.”

The album’s title track has Morris in search of humility, admitting that she’s “biting my tongue behind a smile // falling on swords that I can’t see // Poison my well on the daily.” She’s on her humble quest, but admits on the ethereal track that she “still hasn’t found it yet” as she toes the line between “fulfilled and full of herself.”

“Hummingbird” is one of the album’s most stunning moments, penned by Morris on the day she found out she was pregnant with her now two-year-old son, Hayes. She admits that the song almost felt meant to be, as she learned of her pregnancy on her way to a co-write with the Love Junkies: Hillary Lindsey, Lori McKenna, and Liz Rose. 

“The way the world works sometimes blows my mind because I was on my way to write with these three women that I respect so highly, and they’re all working mothers, and they were the first people aside from Ryan that I told that I was pregnant. We ended up writing “Hummingbird” that day,” she shares. “I shed a light on what becoming a mother meant to me before I even met Hayes with that song.” 

Morris offers a moment of girl power on “Good Friends,” a tribute to those who keep us grounded and humble in life. “Some folks are fairweather // Some just drift in and out // At my worst or my better // You always stick around,” She sings of those who are always by her side. “We got history // No conditions // You don’t ever have to worry // that I’ll keep you sturdy // ‘Cause we’re good friends.”

Humble Quest ends with the beautifully poignant “What Would This World Do?,” written by Morris, Hurd, and Jon Greene, before the passing of their friend and collaborator, Michael Busbee. The sparse piano ballad is beautifully haunting, a bittersweet song of hope as Morris wonders “What would this world do without you?”

In speaking with the New York Times, Morris admitted that the song was written from a place of hope before his passing, but still felt like an appropriate ending to the album. “I knew that I wanted to end the record with that song, because I hope it’s a respectful way to honor him and what he did for me,” She says. “ I wanted to keep the production super simple. It didn’t need much more than just a piano and vocal. It was our way to honor him and his life and his talent. I don’t know if I’ll ever be able to sing that one live, but I’m glad that we put it on the album, because it deserves the end of this chapter.”

While Morris may end the album with “What Would This World Do?” to honor busbee, it’s the type of song that everyone can relate to, as are the collection’s ten other tracks. The singer-songwriter is at her most personal here, and with such depth on the songs, Morris proves why she’s one of the genre’s most acclaimed young artists. Maren Morris may still be on a Humble Quest, but we’re so thankful she’s taking us along her journey.

Humble Quest Tracklist:

  1. Circles Around This Town
  2. The Furthest Thing
  3. I Can’t Love You Anymore
  4. Humble Quest
  5. Background Music
  6. Nervous
  7. Tall Guys
  8. Detour
  9. Hummingbird
  10. Good Friends
  11. What Would This World Do?
maren-morris-new-album

Maren Morris’ new album ‘Humble Quest’ is 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 Maren Morris announcements and releases.

To keep up with Maren Morris, follow her on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

Humble Quest 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.

Hailey-whitters-raised

Hailey Whitters: ‘RAISED’ – Album Review

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Hailey Whitters third studio album, RAISED is out now, March 18th on all streaming platforms. Check out our full review and listen to the new album below.

Hailey Whitters has been an artist to watch for many years, and after making a splash with her sophomore record The Dream, Whitters has returned with a brand new 17-track project, RAISED.

The album opens with an instrumental in Latin titled “Ad Astra Per Alas Porci”, which translates to “Pigasus”, a pig that flies – a trope that Whitters holds close to her heart. Pigasus is the name of Whitters’ personal record imprint, so this cinematic opener really sets the scene of learning her backstory sonically. It ties in perfectly to the title track “Raised”, an airy, nostalgic song with fabulous imagery about being raised as a Heartland girl. You can hear her Chicks influence, but it also feels like an extension of “Heartland”. It’s no coincidence that Whitters wrote this song with the same co-writers. It’s classically Hailey; it sounds like a sunrise.

Much of the first half of the record are stellar story-songs written specifically about Whitters’ childhood growing up in Iowa. Yet, the specificity remains relatable. Between the perfectly fiddle-heavy “Big Family” and John Mellencamp-esque “Middle of America” (the latter of which features alternative country band American Aquarium); and the bonafide fan favorite “Boys Back Home”, all are pulled from the life that she has lived so far. Whitters is a strong songwriter by herself, but she also collaborated with some of the best songwriters in Nashville on the project. From the storytelling queen, Lori McKenna to her record–label head, Nicolle Galyon to the insanely legendary, Tom Douglas, it’s no wonder each lyric has such prominent meaning.

All 17 tracks are evocative, witty, and intentional. “Boys Back Home”, which she wrote with frequent collaborators Brandy Clark and Jessie Jo Dillon captures the essence of hometown scarcity. “When I think about all of the men that I know // They’re ain’t none like the boys back home”, she sings with a shine in her voice on the chorus.

Another highlight on RAISED is “College Town”, an anthem for all those who took the big leap of faith to further their education. “She’ll come home for Christmas and cut off her hair // Got a whole new opinion her parents don’t share”. The way Whitters approaches the song is different from most country songs about college and is still authentically country.

The interlude that goes into “Our Grass Is Legal” has Whitters’ Aunt Cindy on the phone with a potential customer at the Whitters family turf farm who mistakes their business for one that sells weed. The song that follows it – and is the family businesses’ slogan – “Our Grass Is Legal” is the midwestern, blue-collar anthem of the album. It has a real rocking, slight jazzy groove to it, and will without a doubt be a crowd-pleaser when performed on tour.

The official closer, and another highlight, is the sweet “In A Field Somewhere”. It’s the bookend for the title track and the entire RAISED project. It tells the story of Whitters learning to drive, sneaking off with her friends as a teenager, and even when she got proposed to by her fiancé, fellow Iowan native, and producer, Jake Gear. It’s the perfect closer, and the reprise of the first instrumental finishes it off so wonderfully.

RAISED is a true record, one that is best listened to in order, maybe in the car with the windows down, or at home watching the sunset. Music isn’t made like this anymore, and Hailey Whitters continues to raise the bar in every way for songwriters, musicians, and frankly, music fans everywhere by being herself. RAISED is a love letter to the midwest as much as it’s a love letter to storytelling. And it’s a story that keeps getting better the more chapters Whitters writes.

RAISED Tracklist:

  1. Ad Astra Per Alas Porci (Jordan Lehning, Pedro Palomino)
  2. Raised (Hailey Whitters, Nicolle Galyon, Forest Glen Whitehead)
  3. Everything She Ain’t (Hailey Whitters, Bryan Simpson, Ryan Tyndell)
  4. Big Family (Hailey Whitters, Cameron Bedell, Nicolle Galyon)
  5. Middle Of America (feat. American Aquarium) (Hailey Whitters, Bobby Pinson)
  6. Plain Jane (Hailey Whitters, Hillary Lindsey, Cary Barlowe)
  7. College Town (Hailey Whitters, Nicolle Galyon, Jimmy Robbins)
  8. Interlude (Hailey Whitters, Pedro Palomino)
  9. Boys Back Home (Hailey Whitters, Brandy Clark, Jessie Jo Dillon)
  10. Everybody Oughta (Matt Roy, Craig Wiseman)
  11. Pretty Boy (Hailey Whitters, Scooter Carusoe, Tom Douglas)
  12. The Neon (Hailey Whitters, Rodney Clawson, Lori McKenna)
  13. The Grassman (Hailey Whitters, Aaron Raitiere)
  14. Our Grass Is Legal (Hailey Whitters)
  15. Beer Tastes Better (Hailey Whitters, Lori McKenna)
  16. In A Field Somewhere (Hailey Whitters, Jeff Hyde, Bryan Simpson)
  17. Ad Astra Per Alas Porci (Reprise) (Jordan Lehning, Pedro Palomino)
Hailey-whitters-album

Hailey Whitters’ new album ‘RAISED’ is 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 Hailey Whitters announcements and releases.

To keep up with Hailey Whitters, follow her on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

RAISED 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.

Tiffany-woys-new-ep

Tiffany Woys: ‘All About Love’ – EP Review

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Tiffany Woys releases her new EP, All About Love, out now, March 18th on all streaming platforms. Listen to the brand new music below and check out our full review.

Tiffany Woys is a powerhouse singer in country music. She has the unique ability to make every song she sings feel like it came directly from her soul. On her newest EP, All About Love, Woys enlists the songwriting prowess of some of Nashville’s top songwriters to create an incredible new project.

In a recent press release, Woys shares “Love is a universal language. It’s a feeling that everyone experiences along with heartbreak. It’s all I’ve really wanted to convey with listeners. I want people to know we are all more related than you think.’ Later she adds, “That’s through love. So now I am releasing six songs that I hope relate to you too. That through love and music you feel a little less alone. This EP is All About Love and I think we can all agree we need more of it!”

The EP kicks off with the Woys’ current single, “About Love.” The track is the perfect introduction to the project. The pop-country tune feels wistful and hopeful, two things we need more of in our everyday lives. Similarly, on “Own This Town,” Woys sings about love and nostalgia. The song manages to deliver that hope and confidence yet again.

Next up is “Wear It Out,” written by Tammi Kidd Hutton, Nathan Spicer, and Sarah Allison Turner. On this song, Woys’ pours her heart out about a song that reminds you of your love. With lyrics like, “So I wear it out til it don’t // Spin around anymore // I turn it up loud enough that I’m yours // right back in your arms baby,” the song inspires so much emotion.

On “I Don’t Want You Back,” Woys taps into the difficult time of love. Each lyric of the song is vulnerable and relatable. The song expresses how it feels to watch someone you once loved move on and have to act like you are okay with it. One of our favorite songs on the record, Woys’ proves she is a powerhouse vocalist for any of the naysayers.

Similarly, on “I’ll Meet You There,” the songstress allows fans into the vulnerability of how love can sometimes be scary. Despite the melancholy nature of the song, there is still hope weaved into each and every lyric.

“Sometimes loves gonna take // More than it’s gonna give you back // You either bend or you break // It’s always been simple as that // Yeah it’s messy and it’s real // Love ain’t built on how we feel // No the road to forever ain’t always fair // but I’ll meet you there”

The record ends with an impressive cover of LeAnn Rimes’ song “Probably Wouldn’t Be This Way.” The ballad is the perfect way to end an EP that is centered around all things “love.” All About Love is one of our favorite releases by Woys so far.

Tiffany-woys-new-ep

Tiffany Woys’ new EP, ‘All About Love,’ out now on all streaming platforms.

All About Love EP Tracklist:

  1. “About Love” (Jason Saenz, Sara Haze, Sam Ellis)
  2. “Own This Town” (Sam Ellis, Sara Haze, Heather Morgan)
  3. “Wear It Out” (Tammi Kidd Hutton, Nathan Spicer, Sarah Allison Turner)
  4. “I Don’t Want You Back” (Jason Saenz, Sara Haze, Jon Mclaughlin)
  5. “I’ll Meet You There” (Emily Shackelton, busbee, Hannah Ellis)
  6. “Probably Wouldn’t Be This Way” (Tammi Kidd, John Kennedy)

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

To keep up with Tiffany Woys, follow him on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

All About Love EP is now 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.