Ernest: ‘Flower Shops (The Album)’ – Album Review

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Ernest’s full-length album, Flower Shops (The Album) is out now, March 11th on all streaming platforms. Listen to the new album below.

One of Big Loud’s biggest songwriters, Ernest Keith Smith (known professionally as ERNEST) has penned number-one hits for artists such as Florida Georgia Line, Chris Lane, Morgan Wallen, Sam Hunt, and Kane Brown but now is working on his career as a singer and performer. Since signing with Big Loud in 2019, ERNEST has released a nine-track album called Locals Only and a few singles including “American Rust,” but has predominantly focused his craft on songwriting. Following the success of his collaboration with Wallen, “Flower Shops,” which skyrocketed to #1 on iTunes, Apple Music Country, and Spotify Country upon its release and currently sits in the top-25 on country radio, he decided to turn it into a full album. 

“It’s a very good feeling to have this body of work ready to share with the world,” he said in a recent press release. “It feels like there’s a shift happening in country music and the people want to hear more honesty in songs, and with honesty comes pain – sometimes we need to feel that too. I hope this project provides a little sepia tone world for the listener to escape to and go on a journey of their own…feeling everything from love to lost.”

Like he said, the major themes on this record are love and heartbreak. It tells the story of a relationship that almost wasn’t in a much more country-sounding manner than he is used to, sprinkling steel guitar all over this album. It was entirely co-written by ERNEST, with collaborators from other major Nashville-writers Ashley Gorley, The Warren Brothers, Rodney Clawson, Mark Holman, Ryan Vojtesak, and label-mates Ben Burgess and Lily Rose. 

While most of the tracks are slow or mid-tempo, it starts with the upbeat, very descriptive “Sucker For Small Towns.” ERNEST sings about how this girl persuaded him to get into a relationship by showing him all around her two-lane town. Its catchy lyrics like “fool for a full moon, you sure set the right mood” make it fun for listeners to sing along to. The other upbeat track, “Did It With You,” sounds like the follow-up to the former. ERNEST mentions how much he misses this girl and how driving down these roads feels much different without her next to him in the shotgun seat. 

“If You Were Whiskey” is a much more melancholy break-up song. While drinking at a bar, he realizes that if his ex was more like Jack Daniels, he’d be a much happier man.

“But if you were whiskey, it looks like I’d still have you right here with me // and I’d be getting a different kind of tipsy, instead of sitting here sipping number seven all night long // But if you were whiskey, I’d still be holding you and we’d still be going strong”

Love and gratitude is expressed in the next three tracks. “Tennessee Queen” tells the classic story of not having a lot, but having all you need. ERNEST makes a lot of Elvis Presley references in the song including mentions of “Graceland” “Blue Suede Shoes,” “All Shook Up,” “Hunk of Burning Love,” “Love Me Tender” and “feeling like a King.” ERNEST mixes in his R&B influence in “Classic”—a tune about staying in with a girl and a record player instead of hitting the town. “Comfortable When I’m Crazy” is his most vulnerable track on the project. He addresses a former alcohol and drug addiction, describing it as having “neon demons.” It was the only way he felt comfortable with himself until his met the person who changed his entire perspective on life.

“It’s always lonely after midnight, getting what I want not what I need // I’m only comfortable when I’m crazy // Girl, look what you made me do to me”

“Feet Wanna Run” portrays the life of a touring artist—constantly conflicted between staying home with the ones you love or hitting the road and chasing your dream. 

ERNEST shies away from the simple acoustic production towards the end of the record on “What It’s Comes To” and “Some Other Bar.” In the latter, the man in the song meets someone that really piques his interest, however, he does not hear back from her after they say their goodbyes. This gets him wishing on stars hoping that he will see her at some other bar. The eleventh and final track is an acoustic version of “Flower Shops.”

ERNEST will perform his new set to a hometown crowd at back-to-back sold-out shows headlining Nashville’s famed Exit/In on March 21 and 22. Until then, he will remain on the road supporting Chris Lane’s FILL THEM BOOTS tour with Lily Rose including a stop at New York City’s Irving Plaza this Sunday, March 13th. For tickets, head to his website.

Flower Shops (The Album) Tracklist:

  1. “Sucker for Small Towns” (Ernest Keith Smith, Jacob Durrett, Ashley Gorley)
  2.  “Tennessee Queen” (Ernest Keith Smith, Dan Isbell, Jordan Schmidt)
  3. “Classic” (Ernest Keith Smith, Jacob Durrett)
  4. “Feet Wanna Run” (Ernest Keith Smith, Chris LaCorte, Brad Warren, Brett Warren)
  5. “Comfortable When I’m Crazy” (Ernest Keith Smith, Rodney Clawson)
  6. “Flower Shops” feat. Morgan Wallen (Ernest Keith Smith, Ben Burgess, Mark Holman)
  7. “Did It With You” (Ernest Keith Smith, Rodney Clawson, Nathan Spicer)
  8. “What It’s Come To” (Ernest Keith Smith, Lily Rose, Ryan Vojtesak)
  9. “If You Were Whiskey” (Ernest Keith Smith, Michael Carter, Ben Hayslip)
  10. “Some Other Bar” (Ernest Keith Smith, Ashley Gorley, Ryan Vojtesak)
  11. “Flower Shops” (feat. Morgan Wallen) [Acoustic] (Ernest Keith Smith, Ben Burgess, Mark Holman)
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Ernest’s album ‘Flower Shops (The Album)’ is officially out now!

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

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

Flower Shops (The Album) 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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Jackson Dean: ‘Greenbroke’ – Album Review

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Jackson Dean’s major-label debut album, Greenbroke is out now, March 11th on all streaming platforms. Listen to the new album below.

There are many things one might imagine when they hear Jackson Dean’s gritty and soulful voice. In fact, if one was a coach on The Voice, they might imagine they’re turning a chair for the likes of Chris Stapleton, Luke Combs, or Larry Fleet. It’s truly safe to assume that you’d never picture a young man behind the weathered and astounding voice.

Enter Jackson Dean, a twenty-year-old who currently has all of Nashville abuzz. While still in high school, the young phenom found himself as one of country music’s most sought-after new stars. He ultimately signed with Big Machine Records, and today, March 11, he releases his debut album, Greenbroke. 

For this project, the Maryland native enlisted super-producer Luke Dick, and the pair have created a truly masterful debut. Featuring ten songs co-written by the future superstar, Greenbroke is truly the type of album that breaks the mold and gives hope for the future of country music.

Opening with an acoustic guitar and a stomping soulful beat remnant of Marc Broussard, Dean comes on fast and furious with the album’s first track, “Don’t Come Looking.” With his authentic voice and driving guitars, the track is a declaration of independence. “If I don’t come back, don’t come looking,” Dean warns as he hits the road. He’s a man on a mission as he’s “got nowhere to go, so he’s already there.”

While “Trailer Park” poses Dean as a bit of a ramblin’ man not looking to settle down, songs like “Fearless” and “Love You Anymore” show a different side. On the former, he’s sensitive and vulnerable, admitting that there’s one special person who actually makes him nervous. “I’m fearless, except when it comes to you,” He growls in a way that’s endlessly endearing.

Meanwhile, on “Love You Anymore,” he’s wishing on stars and pennies in a well that he could move on, but finding it impossible. “I wish I didn’t love you, didn’t love you anymore,” He drawls, his voice laced with vulnerability. “Wish I could find a way to get through the day // Without going through hell.”

“Red Light” is a stomping jam that shows Dean with hints of Kip Moore in what may be the album’s most radio-ready track. It’s driving, it’s catchy, and it’s brilliant. Likewise, “Don’t Take Much” offers a moment of musical levity, with a feel-good groove that’s sure to make you smile. Here, Dean muses that “It don’t take much to have it all.”

The album concludes with the poignant double-header of “Wings” and “Greenbroke.” Both show the singer-songwriter’s true heart, with “Wings” offering one of the album’s most unguarded moments, haunting and melodic in a way that can be best described as a prayer. Here, he’s longing for wings to “fly above everything,” his voice laced with a weight far beyond his eighteen years.

The album ends on a positive note, with the title track. Building the moment with a moody instrumental that leads into Dean’s powerful vocal, it offers a lyrical affirmation of what he stands for. He left home at eighteen, never to look back, running free and “writing his story in the sands of time.” If there was any question as to who Jackson Dean is, it’s clear as day here.

Possessing a grit and storytelling ability way beyond his years, Jackson Dean offers a debut album that’s one of the genre’s strongest in recent memory. He’s country music’s next big thing, and we can’t wait to be along for the ride.

Greenbroke Tracklist:

  1. Don’t Come Lookin’ | Jackson Dean, Luke Dick
  2. Trailer Park | Jackson Dean, Cary Barlowe, Jesse Frasure
  3. Fearless | Jackson Dean, Luke Dick, Jonathan Scott Sherwood
  4. Don’t Take Much | Jackson Dean, Marv Green, JT Harding
  5. Superstitions | Jackson Dean, Luke Dick, Dan Tyminski
  6. Love You Anymore | Jackson Dean, Brian Bunn, Phillip Lammonds
  7. Red Light | Jackson Dean, Jonathan Scott Sherwood, Ryan Tyndell
  8. Other Than Me | Jackson Dean, Bryan Simpson, Ryan Tyndell
  9. Wings | Jackson Dean, Park Chisolm
  10. Greenbroke | Jackson Dean, Jeff Hyde
Jackson-dean-new-album

Jackson Dean drops his debut album ‘Greenbroke’ out now.

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

To keep up with Jackson Dean, follow him on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

Greenbroke 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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Nashvillains: ‘Tumbling Down’ – Album Review

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Nashvillains debut album, Tumbling Down is out now, March 4th on all streaming platforms. Listen to the new album below.

Nashvillains are an act you are going to want to remember! Comprised of Troy Johnson, Scott Lindsey, and Brett Boyett, the trio just released their debut record. The country-rock album, Tumbling Down is out now.

Chock-full of incredible songs, Tumbling Down is one of the most unique records out there right now. Unlike most records in the country genre, the album is meant to be listened to from start to finish. According to the band members, “It’s a concept album, so there’s an overall story and an arc to the entire album, so each song relates to the next one.” Band member, Lindsey adds, “Our original inspiration was to tell a story about a man that has made bad decisions that have sent his life into a downward spiral. In three simple words, the album is beautiful, dramatic, and classic.”

The record kicks off with the track, “Devil Don’t Sleep.” The song depicts the struggles the protagonist is going through – feeling like a song straight out of a movie. The album progresses to the next two songs, “Standing In The Fire” and the title track and lead single, “Tumbling Down.” The former is an eerie slow burn. Johnson’s vocals are haunting in the best way possible. Similarly, “Tumbling Down” is a ballad that depicts the depths a person can fall to. Additionally, the instrumentation on this song is a darker version of more traditional country music.

“Every road is just a lonely old blacktop // Heading someplace you’ve already been // Pound of dust on your shoes // Sunburn on your neck // And memories in your head you can’t forget // Oooh oooh ooh”

The Nashvillains continue to play with the instrumentation on the groovy, blues-heavy, “Baby Keeps Killing Me.” On “Bonita,” the group members introduce a gothic, yet Latin flair to their already enticing project.

The band members continue to play with their songs both melodically and sonically on “There To Catch Me” and “Love Is Pain.” The former brings it back to traditional country music, while keeping the dark and deep guitars throughout the rhythm. The latter broadens the rock music elements of the record.

The album concludes with “Chickasaw Bayou” and “Don’t Let Me Hang.” On “Chickasaw Bayou,” the Nashvillains’ declare an end to the suffering expressed throughout the tracks before. “Don’t Let Me Hang” is a plea to God to bring salvation and end to the suffering. Although dark, the song is the perfect way to end the cohesive and incredible story that unfolded throughout the record.

Overall the Nashvillains debut record is a unique masterpiece. The trio managed to create a project that is delightfully unlike anything else in the genre right now. The instrumentation, the lyrics, the story-telling, and the relatability are all top-notch. Congrats to Nashvillains on their killer debut!

Tumbling Down Tracklist:

  1. “Devil Don’t Sleep” (Troy Johnson, Scott Lindsey, and Brett Boyett)
  2. “Standing In The Fire” (Troy Johnson, Scott Lindsey, Brett Boyett)
  3. “Tumbling Down” (Troy Johnson, Scott Lindsey, Brett Boyett)
  4. “Baby Keeps Killing Me” (Troy Johnson, Scott Lindsey, Brett Boyett)
  5.  “Bonita” (Troy Johnson, Scott Lindsey, Brett Boyett)
  6. “There To Catch Me” (Troy Johnson, Scott Lindsey, Brett Boyett)
  7. Love Is Pain” (Troy Johnson, Scott Lindsey, Brett Boyett)
  8. “Chickasaw Bayou” (Troy Johnson, Scott Lindsey, Brett Boyett)
  9. “Don’t Let Me Hang” (Troy Johnson, Scott Lindsey, Brett Boyett)
Nashvillains-new-album

Nashvillains debut album, ‘Tumbling Down’ is out now.

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

To keep up with Nashvillains, follow them on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

Tumbling Down 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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Teddy Robb: ‘Get Away With It’- EP Review

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Teddy Robb’s brand new EP, Get Away With It, is out now, February 25th on all streaming platforms. Listen to the brand new music below and check out our full review.

For Monument Recording artist Teddy Robb, the Get Away With It EP is a natural follow up to his 2020 self-titled offering. Featuring the hit “Really Shouldn’t Drink Around You,” the debut EP introduced Robb, while the follow-up shows he’s here to stay. Interestingly, there were times during the past two years that Robb wasn’t sure if that was the case.

Completed during the pandemic, the singer-songwriter found himself at a turning point during the making of this record. “Everything was written from a place of reflection,” He says. “The whole EP came together during the pandemic when I spent a lot of time looking back on my life. I was forced to look at my career and say, ‘Do I think that music is a viable option?’ And ‘no’ was just not an acceptable answer.”

“Teddy has worked so hard to raise the bar as a writer and performer.  His work ethic has really blown my mind. He’s the first one in the studio, and the last to leave,” shares Monument Records Co-President Shane McAnally in a statement. ““Whiskey Can’t” is proof of the time and passion he has poured into his craft.”

That track opens the EP in style, setting the stage for a collection that remains true to Robb’s sound, yet shows natural growth. He’s not chasing musical trends here, but honing his country sound. Written by Robb with Kelly Archer, Pete Good, Josh Jenkins, and Brandon Ratcliff, the track is about a woman who gives him a stronger buzz than any drink could. While he knows the buzz of whiskey, this is something different and special.

“’Cause I’ve been three sheets to the wind// But I ain’t never been this drunk// Never had a harder time getting out of bed// Or waking up,” He sings. “I feel something different// When I got you in my hands// There ain’t a better buzz//  Girl, you do what the whiskey can’t.”

Robb is nostalgic on the truck song “1500,” which is far from the typical beers and tailgate track. Instead, it’s an ode to his teenage days spent in a special truck. Written by Robb, Good, Ratcliff, and Dave Turnbull, the idea of a truck song was originally scoffed at by Robb’s co-writers, but it was something the Ohio native believed in. “I said, ‘Look I know there’s a lot of truck songs, but I want to do my take on it.’” Shared Robb in a statement. “The first line we spit out was, ‘I was 16 in a 1500,’ and immediately we were like that’s the song right there.”

On “Get Away With It,” Robb shows his softer, more vulnerable side, wondering how he let a girl break his heart. On the twangy track, he admits that he’s usually the runner in relationships, but this time, the tables have turned.

“I’m the one that’s supposed to run, but I didn’t.” He admits. “Now you’re the one that I’m missing// and I’m the one that fell apart// Yeah you’re the one that got away// And stole my heart// but how’d you get away with it?”

“Middle of Nowhere” sees Robb still heartbroken, finding himself in a bar wondering about the one that got away. The dark, moody track throws a clever lyric over heavier instrumentation and guitar than we’re used to from the singer, but it works flawlessly here. He’s trying to move on with a new girl, but admits that he may be in the “middle of the night, middle of a bar, middle of kissing somebody new,” but he’s also in the “middle of nowhere over you.”

The EP concludes with “Cigarettes’ll Kill Ya,” a clever twist on the broken-hearted tracks. It takes a cigarette to remind him of the one who got away, as he sings:

“That secondhand smoke// From the red and black cloves// Same ones we used to burn// When we’d get a little loaded// Up on a Friday, buzzing the night away// Damn, you were one in a million// Now, I’m sitting right here in a missing you haze// Hurts a little more with every drag that she’s taking// Baby I’m dying just to be with you// Yep, cigarettes’ll kill ya”

For Teddy Robb, the Get Away With It EP was born from a place of reflection during the pandemic, and it’s a solid five-song collection that proves the singer-songwriter has a bright future ahead.

teddy-robb-new-ep

Teddy Robb’s new EP, ‘Get Away With It’ is out now.

Get Away With It EP Tracklist:

  1. Whiskey Can’t
  2. 1500
  3. Get Away With It
  4. Middle of Nowhere
  5. Cigarettes’ll Kill Ya

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

To keep up with Teddy Robb, follow him on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

Get Away With It 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.

matt-roy-wildflower-new-ep

Matt Roy: ‘Wildflower’- Debut EP Review

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Matt Roy releases his debut EP, Wildflower, out now, February 25th on all streaming platforms. Listen to the brand new music below and check out our full review.

Every now and then we come across a debut project that we absolutely love! Matt Roy’s new EP, Wildflower is one of those projects. The singer-songwriter captivated us with the five-song record. Each song provides fans with an intricate look into Roy’s unique artistry and talent.

Beginning with, “Easy To Find,” Roy showcases his personality and songwriting prowess. The debut single is the perfect introduction into the singer-songwriter’s one-of-a-kind talent. Roy’s other previously released song, “That Town, That Truck, That Song” is also featured on this EP. The song is nostalgia wrapped up in a pretty melody.

“Yeah that Main Street, midnight red light blinking // That hand me down two tone // Ford oil leaking // That long neck bottle for a microphone singing // In that town, that truck, that song // You learned every word on that burnt CD // I learned every curve on that torn bench seat // Last I heard you were in Tennessee // But to me, you’ll always be // In that town, that truck, that song”

Wildflower also boasts three brand new songs. “Morning In New Orleans,” the second song off the project is a true masterclass in songwriting. The lyrics weave through you, as you listen to the story unfold. The hook and the chorus drop in an unexpected way that keeps you wanting more.

The final two tracks are quite possibly our favorites on the record. “When You Lose Someone” is a heartbreaking ballad. The emotions this song brings to the forefront are raw and painful, yet relatable and cathartic. Roy’s vocals soar on the beautifully-crafted song.

“When you lose someone // Day turns to night, night turns to day // The grass grows knee-high in the yard // The razor don’t come near your face // When you lose someone // You kick yourself for things you did, but it’s funny how your memory only plays the greatest hits // When you lose someone”

The record culminates with the title track, “Wildflower.’ Quite possibly, one of the most personal on the project, Roy lets fans into the inner workings of his vices and his heart. The deeply passionate love song is worth the wait.

Overall, Roy’s debut EP is one of our favorites of the year so far. His ability to draw the listener in rivals any artist out there today. Wildflower is a true work of art that all fans of music should listen to.

Matt-roy-new-ep

Matt Roy’s debut EP, ‘Wildflower’ is officially here!

Wildflower EP Tracklist:

  1. Easy To Find
  2. Morning In New Orleans
  3. That Town, That Truck, That Song
  4. When You Lose Someone
  5. Wildflower

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

To keep up with Matt Roy, follow him on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

Wildflower 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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George Birge: Self-titled Debut EP – Review

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George Birge’s self-titled debut EP is out now, February 18th on all streaming platforms. Listen to the brand new project below.

There are few things we love more than championing new artists! New recording artist and TikTok sensation, George Birge fits the bill. The singer-songwriter’s debut self-titled EP is officially here.

A collection of five well put-together songs, Birge showcases his vocals and writing talents as we get to know the new artist on the project. Co-writing four of the five tracks, the EP kicks off with the lone outside cut, “Reason To Go.” The song is inviting and heartfelt. It paints the picture of heartbreak and confidence all in the same breathe.

“No reason to stay is a good reason to go // No reason to try when one of us won’t // Ain’t just going to hang around // and gettin nowhere with you in this little town”

Next-up “Mind On You” showcases a romantic and flirtatious side to Birge. A smooth country slow-groove, the current single is a fan-favorite for good reason. Similarly, the record includes viral song, “Beer Beer, Truck Truck.” The song is a true ode to country music and country living.

Of course, the EP also boasts two brand new songs, arguably two of our favorites on the project. Written by Birge with Jaron Boyer, Michael Tyler, and Matt Stell, “Whiskey Side” gives fans a taste of the singer’s life and feelings.

Similarly, the other new song, “Didn’t Think I’d Miss” is an authentic inner look at Birge’s upbringing. Like many of us, who flee our hometowns, we always find ourselves feeling nostalgic and homesick, when we leave.

“I put that song on the stereo // She’s back in my arms again // Thought it’d be easy to let her go // But now I just can’t quit // Thinking about things I didn’t think I’d miss // Backroad buzzing where the train-track splits // A hometown girl and a goodbye kiss // Just thinking about things I didn’t think I’d miss”

“If I’m being honest, I’ve dreamed about making this project my whole life,” shared George in a recent press release. “Getting the opportunity to make the exact record I want to make, with the exact people I wanted to make it with, feels unbelievable. This project is me; I can’t wait to share it with the world.” This sentiment describes the debut EP to a tee, and we know country fans everywhere are going to continue to flock to Birge’s music.

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George Birge’s self-titled debut EP is out now, February 18th

George Birge EP Tracklist:

  1. Reason To Go (Written by Thomas Archer, Michael Tyler, Lalo Guzman)
  2. Mind On You (Written by George Birge, Jaron Boyer, Michael Tyler, Colt Ford)
  3. Whiskey Side (Written by George Birge, Jaron Boyer, Michael Tyler, Matt Stell)
  4. Didn’t Think I’d Miss (Written by George Birge, Michael Tyler, Ben Stennis)
  5. Beer Beer, Truck Truck (Written by George Birge and Eyrnn Chambers)

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

To keep up with George Birge, follow him on Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, and Facebook.

George Birge 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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Sean Stemaly: ‘Product Of A Small Town’ – Album Review

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Sean Stemaly’s new album, Product Of A Small Town is out now, February 18th on all streaming platforms. Listen to the album below.

Following in the footsteps of Florida Georgia Line and Chris Lane, country newcomer Sean Stemaly has paired with super-producer Joey Moi to release his debut album, Product Of A Small Town. Out today, February 18, the album is a fourteen song collection that includes eight songs co-written by Stemaly. Other writers contributing to the project include big names like HARDY, ERNEST, Jameson Rodgers, Josh Kerr, and Ashley Gorley.

The album opens with the title track, a driving dedication to growing up in a small town that sets the stage for the rest of the album. Here, Stemaly celebrates life in the country, and the people who are just like him. “We’re the product of a small town // Rowdy southern drawl crowd // Muddy water mason jar // Lightning in our veins,” He sings. “Work a blue-collar 40 // For a Friday night // Till it’s noise complaints and blue lights // Cranking country way too loud // We’re the product of a small town”

Country living is a theme that permeates Product Of A Small Town, lacing songs including “Back on a Backroad,” “Love Me Like Kentucky,” and “Can’t Be Me.” The theme continues through Stemaly’s collaboration with Jimmie Allen and Justin Moore on “WD-40 4WD,” one of the album’s clear high points. The trio trade vocals here on an ode to living the country lifestyle. “If you wanna be country, all you really need,” They sing. “Is some WD40 and a 4WD.”

Other highlights of the album include “Can’t Be Me” and “Last Night All Day.” The former is a bittersweet track where Stemaly tells a girl that if she can’t imagine living his country lifestyle, their relationship just won’t work out. If she can’t grow to love the way he lives, the future is bleak for their relationship. Meanwhile. “Last Night All Day” is a twangy and earwormy ode to a night you can’t forget with somebody special. Here, Stemaly can’t get her out of his head, replaying their night over and over.

Lyrically, “Georgia” is a high point of the album, cleverly weaving famous song titles into the chorus in a way that’s super catchy. “I got exes still in Texas  // A couple girls that I don’t mess with // You’re the reason I ain’t seeing California girls // When I’m dreaming I’ve walked in Memphis,” He sings. “A night or two I spent my last dime // Callin’ Baton Rouge // But even after all this time // I still got Georgia on my mind.”

Additionally, “If Heaven Had a Weekend” is remnant of Moore’s “If Heaven Wasn’t So Far Away,” as we find the singer-songwriter longing for the ability to spend some time with those who have passed away. It’s a relatable and heartfelt track that everyone can relate to, with goodbyes not seeming so hard if heaven was a place we could visit. Stemaly took to social media about this track, writing “After my grandpa passed away I wanted to write a song for anyone whose felt the same pain I felt after losing someone you love. Hope this helps somebody.”

“There would be tears // But not near as many // And there’d still be time to make us some memories // And sayin’ goodbye wouldn’t feel so much like they were leavin’ // If Heaven had a weekend”

For Sean Stemaly, Product Of A Small Town is the perfect introduction to the country boy who is a little bit traditional, a little bit modern, and a whole lot of small town.

Product Of A Small Town Tracklist:

  1. “Product Of A Small Town” (Sean Stemaly, David Bliek, Gary Garris, Andrew Marik, Noah West)
  2. “Last Night All Day” (Matt Dragstrem, Ben Johnson, Hunter Phelps)
  3. “Can’t Be Me” (Sean Stemaly, John Byron)
  4. “Z71” (Sean Stemaly, Andy Albert, Brett Tyler)
  5. “Speaking My Language” (Sean Stemaly, John Byron, Blake Pendergrass)
  6. “Comeback Town” (Jesse Frasure, Ashley Gorley, Ernest Keith Smith)
  7. “Love Me Like Kentucky” (Sean Stemaly, Ernest Keith Smith)
  8. “WD-40 4WD (feat. Jimmie Allen & Justin Moore)” (Matt Dragstrem, Chase McGill, Josh Thompson)
  9. “Back On A Backroad” (Michael Hardy, Josh Kerr, Cole Taylor)
  10. “Georgia” (Sean Stemaly, Davis Branch, Sam Grayson, Ryan Robinette)
  11. “If Heaven Had A Weekend” (Sean Stemaly, John Byron)
  12. “As Far As I Know” (Hunter Phelps, Jameson Rodgers, Justin Wilson)
  13. “Hello, You Up” (John Byron, Jamie Moore)
  14. “Come Back To Bed” (Sean Stemaly, Andy Albert, Jared Mullins, Alysa Vanderheym)
Sean-stemaly-album

Sean Stemaly’s new album, ‘Product Of A Small Town,’ is out this Friday!

Check back this Friday for our full album review of Sean Stemaly’s record Product of a Small Town.

To keep up with Seam Steamly follow him on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

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

dustin-lynch-number-one

Dustin Lynch: ‘Blue In The Sky’ – Album Review

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Dustin Lynch’s new album, Blue In The Sky is out now, February 11th on all streaming platforms. Learn about the album below.

Things are looking sunny for Dustin Lynch today, February 11, as he releases Blue In The Sky, his fifth studio album with Broken Bow Records. With twelve new tracks, five of which he co-wrote, the Zach Crowell-produced collection features a perfect combination of party anthems and heartfelt ballads.

“Get ready for a collection of songs that are going to make you feel good and want to mix a drink and party with your friends,” shares Lynch in a statement. He kicks the album off with a bang, opening with the rousing up-tempo “Party Mode,” that, in many ways, feels like it’s setting the stage for his tour of the same name. Lynch tells American Songwriter that that song came to him just after a break up. “Breakups suck, but they’re not always a bad thing. You can fulfill yourself and feel excited again about life and what life holds and all the unknowns,” he said. “‘Party Mode’ was sent to me right after that window of time. It was a perfect match for where I was, and getting to do a lot of living out on the boats because we weren’t touring as much, so it just fit perfectly.”

Another stage-ready anthem is “Stars Like Confetti,” co-written by Thomas Rhett. “Baby you were glowin’ // God was throwin’ // Stars like confetti,” Lynch sings of a night under the stars with a special lady over an earwormy melody that is sure to get stuck in your head.

Meanwhile, “Somethin’ That Makes You Smile” is a song that’s perfect for the crazy world we’re living in, celebrating the simpler things in life. “Whatever it is, ya better get to it,” He sings, reminding listeners to enjoy whatever it is that makes them smile, whether it’s working on a car, fishing, or a drink with friends.

Lynch enlists some of his famous friends to join him on Blue In The Sky, including MacKenzie Porter on the previously released chart-topper “Thinking ‘Bout You.” Additionally, Chris Lane trades verses with the singer on the tropics-laden “Tequila on a Boat” and Riley Green joins for “Huntin’ Land.”  While the former is an ode to exactly what the title implies, the latter takes listeners on a clever lyrical journey. “Huntin’ Land” is a more traditional country song, a bit tongue-in-cheek as Lynch and Green trade verses about an annoying girlfriend whose “daddy has huntin’ land.” If he breaks her heart, he’ll lose access to a favorite pastime, so he might just stick around.

While Lynch may feel at home on party songs, he shines on the slower tracks, including “Pasadena” and “Not Every Cowboy.” On the almost etheral “Pasadena,” Lynch reminisces about a short fling that could’ve been so much more, but slipped away. The track is only made better by gorgeous background vocals from the incomparable Sarah Buxton.

Meanwhile, “Not Every Cowboy” is the album’s final track, a slow ballad that is both poignant and memorable. Here, he’s trying to prove he’s not like all the other cowboys. “Girl, I bet your momma warned you  // ’bout guys like me // And this outlaw in my blood  // Ain’t a wildcard up my sleeve // ‘Cause I ain’t a silhouette Stetson // Heading out west // In a red sunset // and taking your heart with me // So let me show you // that not every cowboy leaves”

On Blue In the Sky, Dustin Lynch offers a solid follow-up to 2020’s Tullahoma. With songs like “Stars Like Confetti ” and “Pasadena,” Lynch is out to prove that he’s “Not Every Cowboy.”

Blue in the Sky Tracklist:

  1. “Party Mode” (Jerry Flowers, Ryan Beaver, Roman Alexander, Jared Keim, Matt McGinn)
  2. “Thinking ’Bout You (feat. MacKenzie Porter)” (Dustin Lynch, Andy Albert, Hunter Phelps, Will Weatherly)
  3. “Stars Like Confetti” (Josh Thompson, Thomas Rhett, Zach Crowell)
  4. “Somethin’ That Makes You Smile” (Erik Dylan, Andy Sheridan, Wyatt McCubbin)
  5. “Break It On A Beach” (Dustin Lynch, Ashley Gorley, Hunter Phelps, Zach Crowell)
  6. “Tequila On A Boat (feat. Chris Lane)” (Hillary Lindsey, Justin Ebach, Matt Alderman)
  7. “Tennessee Trouble” (Dustin Lynch, Matt Dragstrem, Hunter Phelps, Jordan Minton)
  8. “Summer Never Ended” (Cole Taylor, Ben Hayslip, Paul DiGiovanni)
  9. “Back Road TN” (Ben Hayslip, Brock Berryhill, Jameson Rodgers, Brent Anderson)
  10. “Huntin’ Land (feat. Riley Green)” (Dustin Lynch, Andy Albert, Hunter Phelps, Will Weatherly)
  11. “Pasadena” (Dustin Lynch, Jeff Hyde, Ryan Tyndell)
  12. “Not Every Cowboy” (Casey Brown, Parker Welling, Conner Smith, Heather Morgan)
dustin-lynch-new-album

Dustin Lynch’s new album, ‘Blue in the Sky’ is out now.

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

To keep up with Dustin Lynch, follow him on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

Blue In The Sky 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.

Joe-nichols-new-album

Joe Nichols: ‘Good Day For Living’ – Album Review

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Joe Nichols’ new album, Good Day For Living, featuring “Home Run” and “I Got Friends Who Do” with Blake Shelton, is out today, February 11. Read our review below.

Long considered one of country music’s best modern traditionalists, Joe Nichols stays true to that reputation on his new album, Good Day For Living, out today, February 11. The album is his first full-length project in four years, reuniting him with Mickey Jack Cones and Derek George, the producers behind his hits “Sunny and 75” and “Yeah.”

“For the first time in a long time, I don’t feel any pressure,” Nichols says in a statement. “I’m around great people. I’m the type of person who’s always striving for more, but I’ve reached a place where I’m grateful for everything I’ve accomplished so far. It’s been such a good run. I feel at peace, and that has freed me up to make new music that’s very honest.”

For the Quartz Hill Record recording artist, who is releasing his first album with the new label, but his tenth in total, the album is a statement to what he does best. It’s Nichols at his finest and that’s just what fans have come to know. Nowhere is this more evident than the album’s title track, which is sure to lighten your step, starting with a feelgood whistle remnant of Nichols’ hit “Sunny and 75.”

In a press round, Nichols said, “I like this song because it puts me in a good mood,” and it does the same for his kids. He admitted that the song is a favorite among his 7 and 9-year-old, for the simple line, “AC’s broke so we gotta sleep naked.” Yet the ode to embracing the good parts of your day is much more than that. “Living it up // Living it right // Living each day // One day at a time // Ain’t making no worry no bigger than it is when it isn’t,” He sings, and you can almost feel him smiling. “Gonna take a sweet sip of whatever life’s fixing // It’s a good day for living.”

On the album’s opener, the tongue-in-cheek “Brokenhearted,” Nichols muses over fiddle and steel that country music these days is just a bit too full of parties and happiness. He’s turning on the radio in search of something to cry to and instead, he’s finding hooking up, South beach, tans, and parties. “Ain’t no crying in your beer // Ain’t no she walked out the door,” He muses. “Ain’t nobody brokenhearted // In country music anymore.”

Another of the album’s highlights is the duet with Blake Shelton, “I Got Friends Who Do,” a single-worthy ode to having friends in high places. On the fun up-tempo, the pair trade verses like old buddies, singing about all the favors they can call in from friends, tongues firmly planted in cheeks. “It’s all about who you know,” Shelton sings. “I’ve got friends everywhere I go.”

“That’s How I Grew Up” tells the story of his younger days, admitting “most things I learned the hard way, but that’s how I grew up.” The story is a familiar country tale of dirt roads and church pews, Nichols singing, “I grew up in a back seat // On a back road // With the one that got away // Grew up in a back pew of an old church // Where I learned Amazing Grace // Make no mistake that I wouldn’t change // Who I am or who I was // Most things I learned the hard way // But that’s how I grew up.”

“Home Run,” written by Ashley Gorley, Dallas Davidson, and Ross Copperman, is just that. It’s Nichols doing what he does best, painting a picture with his voice. This time it’s a picture of longing for home, the lyrics put a unique spin on the term “home run.” Here, he’s ready to call it quits and hit the road to home. “It’s time I hit a home run // Point it toward that south sun // I’ll be touching bases with them faces // All them places I ain’t been too in way too long // ‘Cause I’ve been way too gone // Swinging for the fences I’ve been missing where I come from // It’s time I hit a home run”

Interestingly, Good Day For Living includes a handful of tracks that were previously released by other artists including “Brokenhearted” (William Michael Morgan), “Why Can’t She” (Adam Craig), “Reckon” (Adam Craig), “She Was” (Mark Chestnutt),  and “Hawaii on Me” (Chris Janson). In an interview, Nichols says that he rarely knows who wrote a song before recording it, and that he checks for songs to pass an “acoustic test” before deciding to record it. Basically, if the song can stand up lyrically with only an acoustic guitar in a room full of people, then it’s one he wants.

Two of the album’s most clever tracks lyrically are “Reckon” and “Why Can’t She,” both penned and previously released by the incredibly talented Adam Craig.  On the former, he puts a clever spin on words, as he reckons with what an ex is doing after he wrecked her heart. Then on “Why Can’t She,” he’s wondering why a woman can’t forgive him when God can, as the song builds in dramatic fashion. “God, tonight I’m calling out // But just a prayer ain’t saving me // I can’t undo the wrong I’ve done // But I know that // You can see // My heart’s full of regret// That’s why I’m down here on my knees // So if You can forgive me // Why can’t she?”

Nichols embraces mortality in a unique way on both “Hawaii on Me” and “She Was.” On the former, co-written by Chris Janson, he tells those who love him not to mourn when he passes, but to celebrate his life. He doesn’t want them to waste his money being sad, but instead wants them to go to Hawaii with that cash. “Put your feet in the sand // Buy you a coke // Raise it on up // Crack a good joke // Tiptoes in the water // And ashes to sea // Yeah, when I die // Go to Hawaii on me.” Meanwhile, on the album’s closing track, “She Was,” he sings of a mother, living selflessly before leaving the world. “If there ever was a picture of love,” He sings. “She was.”

On Good Day For Living, Joe Nichols has nothing to prove. Yet, he still proves why he’s one of country music’s most enduring voices, putting his own modern traditional spin on a wide array of songs and stories. There’s something for everyone here, from the sarcastic “Brokenhearted” through the bittersweet “She Was,” with everything from a Blake Shelton duet to a “Home Run” in-between. And it’s a home run, indeed.

Good Day For Living Tracklist:

  1. “Brokenhearted” (Rhett Akins, Marv Green, John Thomas Harding)
  2. “I Got Friends That Do” (feat. Blake Shelton) (Danick Dupelle, Tebey Ottoh, Jimmy Thow)
  3. “Home Run”* (Ashley Gorley, Dallas Davidson, Ross Copperman)
  4. “Dance With the Girl” (Jason Gantt, John Pierce, Emily Shackelton)
  5. “I Wanna Be Your Tonight” (Philip O’Donnell, Wade Kirby, Marv Green)
  6. “Good Day For Living” (Dave Cohen, Bobby Hambrick, Neil Mason)
  7. “Screened In” (Neil Thrasher, Anthony Jerome Martin)
  8. “That’s How I Grew Up” (Steven McMorran, Josh London, Adam Craig)
  9. “Reckon” (Derek George, Randy Montana, Jeremy Stover)
  10. “Why Can’t She” (Adam Craig, Jon Nite, Matt Rogers)
  11. “One Two Step Closer”* (Justin Lantz, Clint Daniels, Lance Miller)
  12. “Hawaii on Me”^ (Chris Janson, Will Nance, Kelly Roland)
  13. “She Was” (Neal Lee Coty, Jimmy Edward Melton)
Joe-nichols-album

Joe Nichols’ ‘Good Day For Living’ album is out now

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

To keep up with Joe Nichols, follow him on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

Good Day For Living 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.

priscilla-block-new-song-debut-album

Priscilla Block: ‘Welcome To The Block Party’ – Album Review

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Priscilla Block’s debut album, Welcome To The Block Party is officially out now, February 11th, on all streaming platforms. Check out the new record and listen below.

We love a good success story. Country Swag Spotlight alum and 2021 Artist to Watch, Priscilla Block went from TikTok sensation to a major-label artist, and now, the singer-songwriter is celebrating the release of her debut album, out today. Welcome To The Block Party is officially here.

Featuring twelve tracks, the new album is everything we hoped that Block would deliver. According to the songstress, “It has all the trash, all the sass, and all the sad.” She added later in a press release, “I wrote all of these songs from a real and raw place, and I am grateful that I have the opportunity to show various aspects of where I’ve been and who I am.”

After an enticing intro track, the record kicks off with Block’s most recently released song, “My Bar.” An instantaneous hit, “My Bar” is the perfect combination of sassy and raw, a combo that the singer has perfected across the record. Block’s honesty and vulnerability continues on the next two tracks, “Heels In Hand” and “Like A Boy.” On the former, Block normalizes the idea that we can go from happy to sad all in one night, especially when dealing with a toxic relationship. Her relatability is at an all-time high on this track.

Next up, “I Know A Girl,” is one of our favorites on the album. Featuring fellow singer-songwriter, Hillary Lindsey, the song is both about hardship and liberation. In the first verse, Block sings about childhood with lyrics like “I know a girl // who grew up way too fast // in a house made of glass // where things got broken.” Still, in that same verse and in the verse to follow, the singer makes it clear that her hardships made her and definitely did not break her.

“You speed on up to slow back down // That’s just the way the world goes ‘round // It’ll break your heart // It’ll make you think you’ve lost everything // in the kitchen sink // When I’m down and out and when it hurts like hell // I tell myself that I know a girl”

Block continues with the anthemic songs on both “Ever Since You Left” and fan-favorite “Thick Thighs.” Her sassiness is also on full display on “I Bet You Wanna Know,” a song we loved from her debut EP.

On “I’ve Gotten Good,” Block slows it down again, leaning into the more vulnerable and quiet side of her music and songwriting. The song expresses what it’s like to fake feeling better after a rough break-up. “I’ve Gotten Good” is relatable and endearing, while not being too sad.

“Damn, I’ve gotten good // I’m the life of the party // You wouldn’t believe it if you saw me // I’m lookin’ damn good // You could call it the makeup, the glow of the breakup // Whatever I fake up // Yeah, it sure looks like it don’t hurt like it should // Damn, I’ve gotten good”

The next two songs are arguably two of the songs that started it all for Block. Backed by a pop-rock production, Block sings about comparing her ex to the whiskey she’s drinking on “Wish You Were The Whiskey.” Her twangy vocals, mixed with the storytelling aspect of the lyrics, bring the country element to this heart-aching jam.

On Block’s current radio single, “Just About Over You,” the songstress’ vocals are on full display. One of the best on the project, the song shows the singer-songwriter’s vulnerable side. She laments about how it feels to run into an ex before being completely over them.

“Why’d you have to come back in //  right then, right when // I was just getting good and gone? // Guess I was in the wrong place at the wrong time // You must’ve heard I was moving on // Then right out of the blue // a quarter past two // I’m all about you // When I was just about, just about over you // I was just about, just about over you”

The album ends with a song that perfectly ties the entire record together: “Peaked In High School.” The song is a true “victory lap” for Block and anyone who has ever felt like the outcast or like they did not fit in. It is a true embodiment of the singer’s sassiness, intellect, and talent all wrapped in one!

Welcome To The Block Party is everything we hoped it would be and more. Make room for Block in country music because she is not going anywhere! Get to know the singer more in our interview below.

Welcome To The Block Party Tracklist:

  1. Welcome To The Block Party (Priscilla Block, Mark Mulch)
  2. My Bar (Priscilla Block, Stone Aielli, Lexie Hayden)
  3. Heels In Hand (Priscilla Block, Robbie Artress, Josh Beale, Sarah Jones, Kate Hasting)
  4. Like A Boy (Priscilla Block, Sarah Jones, Emily Kroll)
  5. I Know A Girl (Featuring Hillary Lindsey) (Priscilla Block, David Garcia, Hillary Lindsey)
  6. Ever Since You Left (Priscilla Block, Sarah Jones, Josh Kerr)
  7. Thick Thighs (Block Party Version) (Priscilla Block, Emily Kroll, Sarah Jones)
  8. I Bet You Wanna Know (Priscilla Block, Stone Aielli, Sarah Jones)
  9. I’ve Gotten Good (Priscilla Block, Liz Rose, Phil Barton)
  10. Wish You Were The Whiskey (Priscilla Block, Sarah Jones, Josh Beale, Kate Hasting)
  11. Just About Over You (Radio Edit) (Priscilla Block, Emily Kroll, Sarah Jones)
  12. Peaked In High School (Priscilla Block, Josh Beale, Sarah Jones, Kate Hasting)
priscilla-block-debut-album

Priscilla Block’s debut album, ‘Welcome To The Block Party’ is officially out now!

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

To keep up with Priscilla Block follow her on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

Welcome To The Block Party 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.