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Tenille Townes: ‘Masquerades’ – EP Review + Exclusive Interview

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Tenille Townes’ EP, Masquerades, is out now, April 22nd on all streaming platforms. Listen to the brand new music below and check out our exclusive interview.

Tenille Townes is one of the most promising young songwriters to emerge from the Nashville music scene over the last five years. Her knack for storytelling is one that is so authentic and evocative, and her new EP, Masquerades, is her most vulnerable collection of work yet. We had the opportunity to chat with Townes about everything to do with the project and more.

The project opens with the anthemic Wrabel duet, “When You Need It”, a song all about being there for someone when they need you most. The two have written several great songs together but this song was the result of their first co-write.

“I think it’s so crazy that this song about friendship is what marks the beginning of our friendship,” Townes shares with us about the collaboration. “Writing songs with him and getting to know him over the past few years has been one of the brightest silver linings for me in a really dark time. I told him, ‘We have this song, it’s the first song we wrote, I love it, and you have to sing on it.’ I’m so glad he was up for that.”

“The Sound Of Being Alone” is one of the true standouts on the record. Everything about it is interesting: the groovy bass line, the daringly introspective song arc, the booming drums, Townes’ vocal delivery… it’s completely unexpected in every way for a country song, and it may be one of the best of the year, tied with other cut “Villain in Me”.

“Is it the washing machine that keeps on startling me? // Is it the sound of you not calling // Who knows? // I don’t // It’s just the sound of being alone // It comes, it goes // it’s just the sound of being alone // Too much of anything is never a good thing // Is it a bad thing I’m good on my own? // I could say anything, nobody’s listening // It’s just the sound of being alone.” 

“This song has got a little bit of tension and frustration, I think, in the way that I get to sing it. It feels good to put that kind of emotion in a song,” Townes tells us. “This song came from literally going insane in my house by myself….just feeling haunted by the voices in my own head and the thoughts that I was processing. I think as an entire world we’ve never felt lonelier than we have these past few years, you know?”

Previously released “When’s it Gonna Happen” and “Villain in Me” remain two of the strongest songs on the project; particularly the last one. Townes illustrates such restraint vocally and sonically in the song, which begins on the offbeat, a move that an artist like one of Townes’ favorites, Joni Mitchell would pull. “I think I was just soul searching… I went back to some old Joni Mitchell records during this time,” she shares. “Villain in Me” is achingly personal, with lyrics that hit you in your gut: “I try to be a hero ‘til it brings me to my knees // Yeah, there’s a villain in me”. It’s a strong contender for the best country song of the year.

The other collaboration on Masquerades is the song “Shared Walls” with Breland, which utilizes building up the production so elegantly. “I actually wrote this song and recorded the guitar and vocals for it in my apartment! I had the track started, and I got to work with my friend Jackson Hargrove, he’s incredible… it was so amazing to hang out and dream about the different production elements of the song with him,” Townes explains to us. “He did such a great job of building it in an emotional way that kind of comes to life in the right part of the song. And having Breland’s vocal on there was such a dream and brought the whole track together in my opinion.”

The project’s closer is the cinematic, driving “Light in Your Eyes”, a gorgeous, dreamy, love song that in some ways contrasts the rest of the EP, setting listeners up for whatever comes next for Townes. It’s reminiscent of the best songwriter records from the ‘90s – a sound that doesn’t really exist anymore.

“This project was terrifying, honestly. I have this thing where I just trust the music, if I feel it in my gut or in my heart a certain way, I trust that,” she tells us. “There was a combination of ‘I’m so ready’ and completely terrified all at the same time. I really do hope, and what gives me so much courage to share these songs, is hearing from people who say ‘I feel the same, this is my truth too.’ I’m so glad to be stepping into this space of sharing more. It’s really exciting for me to be standing on this new frontier.”

Masquerades EP Tracklist:

  1. When You Need It (featuring Wrabel)
  2. When’s It Gonna Happen
  3. The Sound of Being Alone
  4. Villain In Me
  5. Shared Walls (featuring BRELAND)
  6. Same Road Home
  7. Light In Your Eyes
tenille-townes-masquerades-ep

Tenille Townes’ newest EP, ‘Masquerades’ is out not 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 Tenille Townes releases.

To keep up with Tenille Townes, follow her on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

Masquerades 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.

Jason-aldean-number-one-single-song

Jason Aldean: ‘Georgia’ – Album Review

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Jason Aldean’s highly anticipated album, GEORGIA is officially here. The last fifteen tracks of his double album are out now, April 22nd. Take a listen and read our full review below.

Today, April 22, Jason Aldean released the second half of his Macon, Georgia double-album, completing the ambitious thirty-song project. With ten new songs, as well as five live greatest hits, the Georgia portion, out today, is the follow-up to November’s Macon.

“We’ve always tried to lean toward more songs than less…and this album is no different,” Aldean explains in a statement. “We decided to pepper in some of the live tracks we’ve had stockpiled for a while. After nine albums and 16 years of recording, I hope people can tell I wanted to make this tenth album fun and different from anything we’ve done before.” 

While part one included the mega-hit “If I Didn’t Love You” with Carrie Underwood, part two features future chart-toppers like “God Made Airplanes,” “Whiskey Me Away,” and “Trouble with Heartbreak.” Like Macon, the theme of Georgia seems to revolve heavily around heartbreak, which is where Aldean shines.

“Whiskey Me Away” opens Georgia, perfectly setting the tone, and highlighting Aldean at his best. With his deep voice and brooding style, the superstar tends to excel on mid-tempo heartbreak and this track is the perfect example, hearkening back to some of his earliest hits with its clever play on words.

“Throwing quarters down that jukebox // Play some old-school Alabama // You got the lonely I brought in here // Almost gone without a trace // I know I’ve had a few, yeah, but I’m buzzing on you // You’re a hangover I’d love to wake up to // So come on, baby, whiskey me away // Come on, baby, whiskey me away.”

Likewise, “The State I’m In” and “Trouble with a Heartbreak” are other highlights, both with tension-building and moody melodies, finding the superstar grappling with lost love. On both songs, the heartbreak is inescapable for him as “There’s nowhere her memory can’t go.” Likewise, “The State I’m In” is like a long-lost cousin to 2009’s “The Truth” in the best way possible.

With a tour named after “Rock and Roll Cowboy,” it’s safe to assume the track is destined to be a single, and it’s obvious why. With its catchy hook and driving guitars, the song about a traveling musician is perfectly crafted for a live show.

“God Made Airplanes” is another standout and single-worthy track. Here, he’s desperate to escape, looking to take to the sky to get away from another broken heart.

“That’s why God made airplanes, and runways, and half-price tickets, one-ways // If I could get high up off the ground, ain’t got the wheel can’t turn around // Show me a place without her in it, I’ll be there in a New York minute // If I’m driving, I might hit the breaks // That’s why God made airplanes.”

There are songs on Georgia that find Aldean experimenting with new sounds. For example, “Midnight and Missing You” and “Ain’t Enough Cowboy” find him dabbling with R&B beats and slightly electronic-tinged vocals on the chorus. 

Of the new tracks, the most uncharacteristically Aldean here is “Your Mama,” a sparse and sentimental ballad dedicated to his wife, Brittany. On the stunner of a song, he celebrates the role of his wife as the mother to his children. “It’s just a different kind of song than what you would typically hear from me,” Aldean explains. “Then we turn around and go right back to the rock-driven stuff.”

While the live tracks on Macon were some of Aldean’s earliest hits, including “Amarillo Sky” and “Big Green Tractor,” the five featured on Georgia are newer additions to his catalog. Here, you’ll find live versions of “Take a Little Ride,” “Any Ol’ Barstool,” “Burnin’ It Down,” and “Rearview Town.” The album concludes with a live version of his 2020 hit “Blame It On You.”

For Aldean, the entire Macon, Georgia collection is a celebration of where he’s from. “To me it’s just throwing it back to where it all started,” Aldean revealed in a statement. “I don’t care who you are, where you were raised is such a big part of who you end up being, and for me it’s no different. Macon is a crossroads of country music, Southern rock, blues and R&B, and just that whole combination of music was such a big influence on me growing up – and ultimately on how I make music myself.”

GEORGIA Track List

  1. “Whiskey Me Away”
  2. “Trouble With A Heartbreak”
  3. “The State I’m In”
  4. “Midnight And Missin’ You”
  5. “Ain’t Enough Cowboy”
  6. “God Made Airplanes”
  7. “My Weakness”
  8. “Holy Water”
  9. “Rock And Roll Cowboy”
  10. “Your Mama”
  11. “Take a Little Ride” (Live from Las Vegas, NV)
  12. “Burnin’ It Down” (Live from St. Louis, MO)
  13. “Any Ol’ Barstool” (Live from Knoxville, TN)
  14. “Rearview Town” (Live from St. Louis, MO)
  15. “Blame It On You” (Live from Manchester, TN)
Jason-album-album

Jason Aldean’s new album ‘GEORGIA’ is officially 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 Jason Aldean releases.

This summer, Jason Aldean will bring the Rock N’ Roll Cowboy Tour across the nation with stops in Hartford, Boston, New Orleans, Nashville, and more. Gabby Barrett, John Morgan, and Dee Jay Silver will join him on the 34 city stint, and more info can be found here.

To keep up with Jason Aldean, you can follow him on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

GEORGIA 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.

warren-zeiders-new-song

Warren Zeiders: ‘717 Tapes EP Vol. 2’ – EP Review

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Warren Zeiders’ brand new EP, 717 Tapes Vol. II., is out now, April 22nd on all streaming platforms. Listen to the brand new music below and check out our full review.

One of our 2022 Country Swag Artists to Watch, Warren Zeiders proves time and time again why he made our coveted list. The singer-songwriter stands head and shoulders above many in the industry with his gritty vocals and incredible songwriting. Today, the artist releases the second part of his two-part EP. 717 Tapes Vol. II is officially here.

Zeiders’ EP is bookended by two versions of his recently released song, “Wild Horse.” Written by the singer with Brandon Paddock and Martin Johnson, his vocals are on full display. The deeply-emotive song conveys how it feels to suffer a great loss. Although we love the original version, track six, the acoustic version of the song stops us in our tracks. The emotions are almost palpable.

“Well it’s time to move along I guess // Everything I love I leave behind // Standing in a field out west // One thing on my heart, one on my mind // She rolls like the thunder, flies like the wind out where the river done end // I burned all the bridges left in my life // Ain’t coming back again”

On “Dark Night,” Zeiders leans deeper into the southern-rock side of his talent. His gritty vocals match the dark-nature of the song in a way that feels like a perfect match. On the other hand, “Southbound” shows off the singer’s more sensitive side. The lyric-driven song is all about love, possibility, and honesty. These are just a few reasons why the song is one of our favorites on the project.

“Papa wore the tread off his old boots // Did what he did to get us through // He sent me on my way // And I’m here to make him proud // So I’ll keep rollin’ rollin’ south bound”

Zeiders stands firmly in his country roots on “Ain’t Been Found.” The song could fit in with any southern-rock song from the last couple of decades. The simplistic track draws you in, as Zeiders uses his vocals to unfold the story.

“Burn It Down” wraps up the cohesive project. Written by Zeiders with Andy Sheridan, Erik Dylan, and Rob Snyder, the song showcases everything that the previous song set up. It has grit, honesty, story, and undeniable charm.

Overall, Zeiders EP is a true depiction of his one-of-a-kind artistry.

717 Tapes EP Vol. II Tracklist:

  1. Wild Horse
  2. Dark Night
  3. Southbound
  4. Ain’t Been Found
  5. Burn It Down
  6. Wild Horse (Acoustic)
warren-zeiders-new-ep

Warren Zeiders’ new EP, ‘717 Tapes (Vol 2)’ 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 Warren Zeiders releases.

To keep up with Warren Zeiders, follow him on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

717 Tapes Vol 2 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.

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Abbey Cone: ‘HATE ME’ – EP Review

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Abbey Cone’s debut EP, HATE ME, is out now, April 22nd on all streaming platforms. Listen to the brand new music below and check out our full review.

Back in December, we introduced you to singer-songwriter, Abbey Cone and her journey to country music in our spotlight series. Today, we get to share her debut EP, HATE ME. The record features six songs, all co-written by Cone. It is an EP you are going to want to listen to again and again.

“This project is me. I felt the feelings, I wrote the songs, I co-produced, I co-directed and co-created every part of this release with my team, incredible cowriters, my family, and my best friends. I could never release something that didn’t feel undeniably me,” shared Abbey in a recent press release.  “I have a vision for every part of my career.  I love how involved I was in creating this project and no matter where it lands in the musical universe, I’ll always be proud of it.”

The record kicks off with “In A Room With You.” Written by Cone with Nicolle Galyon, and Nathan Spicer, the pop-country tune makes you want to take a step a step towards independence. Cone mesmerizes from the first lyric. It is clear she knows a thing or two about crafting a memorable and nostalgic song. The song is one of our favorites off the project.

Next up is “King of The World.” The song shares the less romantic side of a small-town romance. According to Cone, “It’s the story of the insecure ones, the ones who can’t handle a girl destined for more than her hometown. The ones who think they’re king of the world, but unfortunately have never experienced more than a few square miles of it.” It is an emotive and incredible song for anyone who needs to hear it.

“You’re king of the world // Yeah, I said it // Whatever you want, yeah you get it // Guess things look different from the top of the ladder // You can break a heart like it don’t matter // But you’re gonna hate the truth, it hits you when you fall // You’re only king of the world // ‘Cause your world is so damn small”

HATE ME continues with the pre-released “Rhinestone Ring.” The song is an incredibly emotive song that is both romantic and romanticized. We appreciate the child-like nature of the beautiful tune. The EP also includes another previously released song, the title track. “Hate Me” is a break-up song that cuts deep.

“Would you get teary-eyed if you saw me with some guy? // Would you start a fight? // Or would you just walk on by? // I know it’s over now don’t know how I’mma get over you // While wishin’ it would’ve lasted  // Can’t act like it never happened”

On “The One,” Cone let’s her vocals shine. The heartfelt track is all about falling in love, but still being scared about “forever.” Despite the fear, it is clear that this relationship is one that will leave a permanent mark on her heart, no matter what the future holds. On the other hand, “Thoughts About You” continues the nostalgic pull that the whole EP encompasses.

“But I thought about you in the back of your Jeep // Yeah, I thought about you // with your hands on me // I was doing alright // Out of sight, out of mind // I thought I knew better uh oh // Than to think about us like it wasn’t all bad // Like I’m missing it, like I want you back”

Cone’s debut is one we are going to be thinking about for a long time coming. Each song was carefully crafted to create a wonderful story of heartbreak, love, independence, and everything in between. Abbey Cone is an artist you are going to want to keep on your radar and one listen to HATE ME proves it.

HATE ME EP Tracklist:

  1. In A Room With You | Abbey Cone, Nicolle Galyon, Nathan Spicer
  2. King Of The World | Abbey Cone, Aaron James Babcock, Peter Christian Good
  3. Rhinestone Ring | Abbey Cone, Heather Morgan, Nathan Spicer
  4. The One | Abbey Cone, Jessie Jo Dillon, Nathan Spicer
  5. Thought About You | Abbey Cone, Nate Cyphert, Nathan Spicer
  6. Hate Me [Explicit] | Abbey Cone, Jessie Jo Dillon, Nathan Spicer
abbey-cone-hate-me

Abbey Cone’s debut EP, ‘HATE ME’ 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 Abbey Cone releases.

To keep up with Abbey Cone, follow her on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

HATE ME 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.

mitchell-tenpenny-ep

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)
m10-new-ep

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
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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.

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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)
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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.

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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)
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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.