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)
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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.

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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.

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Maddie & Tae: ‘Through the Madness Vol. 1’ – EP Review

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Maddie & Tae’s newest EP, Through the Madness Vol. 1is officially out now, January 28th, and available on all streaming platforms. Listen to the brand new music below and check out our full review.

On Through the Madness Volume 1, Maddie and Tae are stronger than ever. As a duo, the pair of Madison Font (formerly Marlow) and Taylor Kerr (formerly Dye) has become known for their intrinsic and ethereal harmonies paired with vulnerability-laden songwriting. This continues on Through the Madness, showing the pair getting better and better with each subsequent release.

Featuring eight brand new tracks, each song on Through the Madness Volume 1 was co-written by the duo, hearts fully on display with each lyric. They also enlist some of Nashville’s biggest names here, including Tae’s husband, Josh Kerr, Jordan Minton, Barry Dean, Luke Laird, and Jimmy Robbins.

Following in the footsteps of 2020’s The Way It Feels, this eight-song collection continues to show their growth as both individuals and a duo. Yet, some songs date back even further than that release. Kerr explains that one of the album’s highlights, “Don’t Make Her Look Dumb” isn’t exactly new. “We wrote ‘Don’t Make Her Look Dumb’ less than a month after “Die From A Broken Heart,” which was five years ago. Everyone loved the song, but Maddie and I felt like we’d already done it.” At the suggestion of their A&R rep, they brought in Morgane Stapleton, best known for performing with her husband, Chris.

Another highlight is the pair’s collaboration with Lori McKenna, “The Other Side.” The song embraces overcoming hardships, the trio harmonizing magically. “I know your heart is heavy// And your feet feel unsteady // That highwire is ready to break // Don’t forget // That there’s strength in the weakness // And light in the pieces // Even broke down hearts know how to shine,” They sing on the uplifting ballad. “Oh, there’s wisdom in the waiting // Peace in the patience // Time always takes care of the changing time // And if you need a hand // Then reach for mine // You’re closer than you think // To the other side.”

On the album’s opener, “What It’s Like Loving You,” the pair whimsically wonder about a relationship with someone new, wondering what it’ll be like. “If it’s anything like tonight,” they muse. “I could get used to // What it’s like loving you.” Meanwhile, they flip the script on “Woman You Got,” outlining the imperfections that make loving them an adventure. “I know you know me, but if I know me,” they sing teasingly. “I’m gonna drive you crazy.”

On “Wish You the Best,” the pair do what they do best, and turn a clever phrase into an incredible lyric. Since the “Girl in a Country Song Days,” they have shined with their lyrical prowess and this country kissoff is no exception. “I wish you the best, but you’ve already had it.”

Both “Madness” and “Strangers” are heartfelt love songs, with “Madness” as an ode to enduring love, promising that “if the world goes mad // I’ll love you through the madness.” The collection ends with the piano-driven “Strangers,” reflecting on the power of the kind of love that makes life before it seem irrelevant. While the song can most easily be interpreted as a love song to a significant other, it can easily be applied to a mother of a child, with Kerr welcoming her first daughter unexpectedly on January 17, nearly three months early.

For Maddie & Tae, Through the Madness Vol. 1 is a natural progression in their musical journey. It shows them evolving and growing while still remaining true to their roots with a combination of clever lyrics, powerful meaning, and pure country harmonies.

Through the Madness Vol 1. EP Tracklist:

  1. What It’s Like Loving You (Maddie Font, Taylor Kerr, Josh Kerr, Jordan Minton)
  2. Woman You Got (Maddie Font, Taylor Kerr, Mark Holman, Laura Veltz)
  3. Don’t Make Her Look Dumb (Feat. Morgane Stapleton) (Maddie Font, Taylor Kerr, Barry Dean, Luke Laird)
  4. Grown Man Cry (Maddie Font, Taylor Kerr, Eric Arjes, Jordan Minton)
  5. Madness (Maddie Font, Taylor Kerr, Jessie Jo Dillon, Zach Kale)
  6. The Other Side (Feat. Lori McKenna) (Maddie Font, Taylor Kerr, Josh Kerr, Lori McKenna)
  7. Wish You The Best (Maddie Font, Taylor Kerr, Matt Dragstrem, Josh Thompson)*
  8. Strangers (Maddie Font, Taylor Kerr, Adam Hambrick, Jimmy Robbins)
maddie-and-tae-ep

Maddie and Tae’s new EP, ‘Through the Madness Vol. 1’ 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 Maddie & Tae releases.

To keep up with Maddie & Tae, follow them on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

Through the Madness Vol 1. 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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Jordan Fletcher: ‘True Stories’- EP Review

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Jordan Fletcher releases his new EP, True Stories, out now, January 28th on all streaming platforms. Listen to the brand new music below and check out our full review.

Jacksonville-born artist, Jordan Fletcher is a singer-songwriter on the rise. He is an artist you are going to want to add to your radar ASAP. Today the talented artist released his debut EP, entitled True Stories.

True to its name, the four songs are an authentic and honest approach to storytelling that country music does so well. According to Fletcher, all of his songs are autobiographical, which makes the EP even more captivating. “If I’m singing it, it’s got to be true. If you wanted a childhood video of me on VHS, this is what you would see. I’m not making this shit up or shying away from what I believe. I’m telling my story,” shares the singer in a recent press release.

The record kicks off with “Firebird,” a laidback jam. Vocally driven with thought-provoking lyrics, Fletcher sings about a car that has a lot of stories and memories wrapped up in it. The song feels both personal and innovative.

Fletcher continues the intricate vibes with “Still Those Kids.” A slower number, the track is a love song at its finest. Clearly inspired by his relationship with his now-wife, the singer takes listeners on a journey down memory lane of their relationship. He does not try to reinvent the wheel with this song but manages to create something that feels fresh, yet nostalgic.

LYRICS

Clearly inspired by love in all its glory, Fletcher’s voice shines on “I Know You Are But What Am I.” He tackles the tough theme of recognizing yourself without the one you love. Fans of songs that show true artistry will fall in love with this track; despite, the desperation it conveys.

The record culminates with another poignant song, “Rather Be Broke.” On this track, Fletcher doubles down on love. Without love, nothing else matters. Moreover, being rich in love is more important than anything else.

We truly fell in love with Fletcher’s debut EP. Each song makes you yearn for more music from the budding artist. It is refreshing to see an artist come out of the gate being unequivocal true to both their artistry and humanness.

Jordan-fletcher-true-stories

Jordan Fletcher’s brand new EP, ‘True Stories,’ is out now on all streaming platforms.

True Stories EP Tracklist:

  1. Firebird
  2. Still Those Kids
  3. I Know You Are But What Am I
  4. Rather Be Broke

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

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

True Stories 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.

rod-and-rose-new-ep

Rod + Rose: Self-titled Debut EP – Review

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Rod + Rose, comprised of Rodney Atkins and wife, Rose Falcon have officially combined their talents on their self-titled debut EP. Listen to the brand new music below and check out our full review.

For Rod + Rose, releasing music together was a natural progression. Like Thompson Square or Joey and Rory before them, the pair are a team both on and off the stage. Married in 2013 and the parents to two sons, Rodney Atkins and Rose Falcon have joined forces as a new musical duo.

With six #1 hits under his belt including “If You’re Going Through Hell,” “Watching You,” and “Caught Up in the Country,” Atkins may be the more well-known of the pair. Yet, Falcon has had great success in her own right as both a singer and a songwriter, writing for the likes of Faith Hill and Lady A. Meanwhile, Eric Paslay’s version of her song “Friday Night” was a number one hit in 2019.

Today, January 28, the couple released their self-titled debut EP, featuring five new songs that show their strengths as a duo. Atkins brings his patented country drawl to the collection, supported by Falcon’s rich and velvety tone, their voices blending in perfect harmony.

The EP’s opening track “Being Here, Being There” tells a tale that is oh-so-relatable. “This song is about being, and having, that friend who celebrates with you during the highs and isn’t afraid to get in the trenches with you during the lows,” says Falcon in a statement. “… if you have that person you can count on to walk through life with you, it’s a game changer. When one is down, the other picks up the slack, and vice-versa. We know how lucky we are to have each other, now more than ever.”

Likewise, “Anyway” and “Put Me Back Together” tell similarly beautiful tales of enduring love, the pair celebrating the way they complement each other in the highs and lows of life. “You take me high // When I’m dropping low // And you show me places I’ve never known,” They harmonize on “Put Me Back Together.” “Even when we’re just riding // ‘Round town getting stoned // Yeah, you put me back together again.” Meanwhile, on “Anyway,” they celebrate each other’s faults and the way they love in spite of them. Here, Falcon takes the lead with Atkins providing a stunning harmony.

“Fine By Me” is a stomping country up-tempo that wouldn’t have sounded out of place on an older Little Big Town record, the pair harmonizing about country living over fiddle and steel, accentuated by a toe-tapping, hand-clapping chorus. “Look at you sitting there,” they sing. “Looking oh so fine by me.”

The EP ends with a wedding version of “Figure Out You,” a song that should be used for first dances from now to eternity, the pair cooing, “I want to spend the rest of my life trying to figure out you.” While some artists may put out wedding songs as a way to find relevance, with Rod + Rose, the offering is purely organic and you can imagine the pair singing and feeling the lyrics.

“You keep me beautifully confused // First kiss I stole I knew // I wanna spend the rest of my life trying to figure out you.”

On their first EP as a duo, Rod + Rose reveal a collection of heartfelt tracks that are sure to melt even the coldest of hearts. Their connection is palpable through their harmonies, and if that ain’t love, we don’t know what is.

Rod + Rose EP Tracklist:

  1. Being Here Being There
  2. Fine By Me
  3. Put Me Back Together
  4. Anyway
  5. Figure Out You (Wedding Version)
rod-and-rose-new-ep

Rod + Rose’s debut self-titled EP 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 Rod + Rose releases.

To keep up with Rod + Rose, follow them on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

Rod + Rose 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.

Brothers Osborne-country-radio

Brothers Osborne: ‘Skeletons Deluxe’ – Album Review

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Brothers Osborne’s new album Skeletons Deluxe is out now, January 21st on all streaming platforms. Listen to the new record below.

Originally released in October 2020, the Brothers Osborne third album, Skeletons, featured twelve tracks of the pure southern country-rock sound that fans have come to know of the duo. With TJ’s signature raspy growl paired with John’s incredible guitar skills, their unique sound shines on Skeletons.

Including the likes of “All Night” and “I’m Not for Everyone,” the Jay Joyce-produced Skeletons was a masterpiece in its original form. Today, however, the GRAMMY-nominated duo released a deluxe version of the album, featuring three new tracks, including the highly acclaimed “Younger Me.”

Nominated for the GRAMMY Award for Best Country Duo/Group Performance, “Younger Me” was inspired by TJ’s coming out in February 2021, making him the first major-label country artist to be openly gay. Written as a letter of reassurance to his younger self, the stirring ballad is one of country music’s most heartfelt tracks released in recent years.

“Younger me // Overthinking, losing sleep at night // Contemplating if it’s worth the fight,” TJ sings. “If he only knew he’d be alright // Yeah, younger me”

While “Younger Me” is arguably the most important track that the brilliant brothers have ever released, it should not completely overshadow the other two tracks released on this deluxe edition. There’s “Headstone,” a driving, guitar-driven uptempo track that reflects what the Brothers Osborne have become known for. Meanwhile, “Midnight Riders Prayer” received Willie Nelson’s personal blessing to include snippets from “On the Road Again.”

Featuring an incredible guitar solo at the halfway point, “Headstone” is sure to be a face-melter during live shows, as they extoll their own perfect imperfections, TJ proudly proclaiming “Write that on my headstone.” Meanwhile, “Midnight Riders Prayer” is an ode to the life of a touring musician. Sampling “On the Road Again” in a way that comes off completely organic, they meld Nelson’s classic rift into their own haunting chorus.

“When your night is ending // Ours is just beginning // On the road again,” They sing. “Like a band of gypsies, we roll down the highway… Brothers ‘til the end // Insisting that the world keep turning our way.”

While Skeletons was already an exemplary album, the three new tracks added to the deluxe album just make it all the more perfect.

Skeletons Deluxe Tracklist:

  1. Lighten Up (John Osborne, TJ Osborne, Daniel Tashian and Ian Fitchuk)
  2. All Night (John Osborne, TJ Osborne and Andrew DeRoberts)
  3. AAll the Good Ones Are (TJ Osborne, Lee Miller and Craig Wiseman)
  4. I’m Not for Everyone (John Osborne, TJ Osborne, Luke Dick and Natalie Hemby)
  5. Skeletons (John Osborne, TJ Osborne and Andrew DeRoberts)
  6. Back On The Bottle (John Osborne, TJ Osborne and Hayes Carll)
  7. High Note (John Osborne, TJ Osborne, Casey Beathard and Dustin Christensen)
  8. Muskrat Greene (John Osborne)
  9. Dead Man’s Curve (John Osborne, TJ Osborne and Lee Miller)
  10. Make It a Good One (John Osborne, TJ Osborne and Stephen Wilson Jr.)
  11. Hatin’ Somebody (John Osborne, TJ Osborne and Casey Beathard)
  12. Old Man’s Boots (John Osborne)
  13. Younger Me (John Osborne, TJ Osborne, Kendell Marvel)
  14. Headstone (John Osborne, TJ Osborne, Kendell Marvel)
  15. Midnight Rider’s Prayer (John Osborne, TJ Osborne, Paul Moak, Willie Nelson)
brothers-osborne-new-album

Brothers Osborne’s new album ‘Skeletons Deluxe’ is out now, January 21st.

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

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

Skeletons Deluxe 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.

walker-hayes-new-album

Walker Hayes: ‘Country Stuff The Album’ – Review

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Walker Hayes’ brand new full-length project, Country Stuff The Album featuring “Fancy Like” and “AA” is out now, January 21st on all streaming platforms. Listen below.

When Walker Hayes released his Country Stuff EP in June, he wasn’t yet “the Fancy Like guy.” In fact, the buzz had just begun about the track that would become a viral sensation, inescapable everywhere from live television performances to Applebee’s commercials. Now, Hayes is taking a step forward as an artist, releasing his full-length Country Stuff The Album today, January 21.

“I’ve been waiting so long to put out a project like this,” says the Monument recording artist in a statement. “It has everything I love from the fun of ‘Fancy Like’ to the more personal lyrics in ‘AA.’ As an artist, it’s such a unique thing to be able to share all the different versions of you in a project, and that’s really what I tried to do here.”

The album opens with “Drinking Songs,” an interesting choice for a man who’s faced his own battles with alcohol addiction. Yet, Hayes jokes about it as only he can, quipping on social media, “Who better to write a drinking song than an alcoholic?” On the breakup track, Hayes is rock bottom after a breakup, getting through the tough times supported by a drink and an array of country greats.

Interestingly, Hayes follows up his “Drinking Songs,” with “AA,” revealing the honest truths about his life and his struggles. On the mid-tempo tune, he muses, “I’m just tryna keep my daughters off the pole // And my sons out of jail // Tryna get to church so I don’t go to hell // I’m just tryna keep my wife // From figuring out // That I married up // And she married way, way down… Hey, I’m just tryna stay out of AA.”

Like “AA,” “What You Don’t Wish For” deals with the struggles Hayes has faced on his road to success. “People think I’m crazy // And sometimes I believe them,” He begins. “I ain’t the best singer in the world // But I can’t stop singing.” He dedicates the song to all “the kids with guitars looking up at the stars” with dreams of making music a career. “They say careful what you wish // But I say more // Be careful what you don’t wish for.”

Hayes shows his romantic side on songs like “Life With You” and “Make You Cry.” If you follow him on social media, it’s abundantly clear how much he loves his wife, Lainey. This is even more evident on the album’s more heartfelt tracks. “Life With You” is about how much life changes once you find your person. “I never knew that I was lonely ‘til your love // Didn’t believe in all that one and only stuff //  Only thing that my heart could commit to // Was my commitment issues // Til you came into the picture like whoa // I said ‘y’all i’m finished flying solo’…” Hayes sings.“Baby all I wanna do is life with you.” Meanwhile, on “Make You Cry,” he celebrates the happy tears of life, which were probably caused by these songs. “I know I hit the right emotion,” He sings. “When your eyes fill up with ocean.”

The album also features a handful of collaborations, including “Country Stuff” with Jake Owen, “Briefcase” with Lori McKenna, and “What If We Did?” with Carly Pearce, each of which appeared on his previously-released EP. The new addition here is the re-release of “Craig,” featuring Christian group MercyMe. The song tells the story of a man whom Hayes met at church that changed his life by paying things forward and giving him a van. The inclusion of MercyMe on the choruses here adds a new layer to the song, making it even more powerful.

“Yeah I know, he sounds cool right? // Not your typical kid from Sunday school, right? // Nah he can’t walk on water // Or turn the Napa Valley red // But he just might be tight with a man that did // Now he’s not the light of the world // But I wish that mine was bright as his // Yeah he just might be tight with a man that is”

“Fancy Like” is still one of the album’s standouts, with its inescapable earworminess that we’re somehow not sick of yet. Meanwhile, Hayes continues to drop funky beats like “Fancy Like” on the likes of “U Gurl,” another rhythmic singalong track that’s sure to make the TikTokers happy.

The album ends on a high note with the stirring Carly Pearce duet “What If We Did.” The track finds the pair after a one-night-stand, musing that they may not make it long term, but what if they did? “That only happens never,” Hayes sings as they consider a possible future together, Pearce’s angelic voice adding a beautiful richness of layers to the already dreamy track.

Unless you’ve been living under a rock for the last six months, you’ve heard and sang along to “Fancy Like.” Yet, there’s so much more to Walker Hayes, as evidenced by Country Stuff The Album. While he can produce a viral hit with a silly dance, Hayes is much deeper than just that, and while it would be easy to simply write him off as “that Fancy Like guy,” we recommend you give him the chance he deserves.

Country Stuff The Album Tracklist:

  1. “Drinking Songs”
  2. “AA”
  3. “Life With You”
  4.  “U Gurl”
  5. “DeLorean”
  6. “Fancy Like”
  7. “Craig” (Feat MercyMe)
  8. “What You Don’t Wish For”
  9. “Country Stuff” (Feat. Jake Owen)
  10. “I Hope You Miss Me”
  11. “Briefcase” (Feat. Lori McKenna)
  12. “Cry”
  13. “What If We Did” (Feat. Carly Pearce)
walker-hayes-new-album

Walker Hayes’ brand new full-length project, ‘Country Stuff The 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 Walker Hayes announcements and releases.

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

Country Stuff 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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Conner Smith: ‘Didn’t Go Too Far’- EP Review

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Conner Smith’s debut EP, Didn’t Go Too Far is officially out now, January 14th, and available on all streaming platforms. Listen to the brand new music below and check out our full review.

Conner Smith, one of our favorite rising stars and 2022 Artists to Watch, has officially released his debut EP, Didn’t Go Too Far. Since signing his record deal in 2019, Smith has secured his spot as a country artist headed for stardom. In just six months, since he started releasing music, the singer-songwriter has garnered an incredible fanbase of supporters and cemented his move from songwriter to artist.

The new project features six songs in the collection, made up of three previously released tracks and three brand new songs. The record kicks off with a new song, “College Town.” Written by Smith independently, the song sets the tone for the rest of the project. The song is high-energy, honest, and lyrically focused, the perfect introduction to the EP.

“The next thing I know, a couple of songs I wrote got me a record deal // They put them out and sent me out to see how it made the people feel // Yeah me and my band hopped in a van to go play some college shows // and that’s why we’re here, so let’s drink a beer”

The record continues with Smith’s current radio single, “Learn From It.” Like the previous song, the singer lets fans know more about his story on this track. The song takes us through all of the mistakes and experiences we all go through as we grow up. Ultimately, the singer relies on the adage that we all learn from those things. The song allows us as listeners to learn more about the artist and his story.

Next up is one of our favorite songs off the record, which also happens to be one of Smith’s favorites as well. The title track, “Didn’t Go Too Far” is vulnerable and authentic. The singer laments about how it feels to lose your love, but being stuck in that small-town makes it nearly impossible to move on. The feelings that Smith brings in the listener in this song proves how incredible of a songwriter he is in his young career.

“There’s only one bar // There’s only one church // How do I move on, when I see you everywhere I turn // I can’t go anywhere to get away // and settle the heart // Because the one that got away didn’t go too far”

The record’s journey continues with the previously released “Take It Slow.” Giving off Sam Hunt vibes, the track is the romantic and hopeful song that this EP begged for. The song is smooth, nostalgic, and inviting. It depicts young love in a way that makes us all feel like we are experiencing it again for the first time. Smith first played the track for us during our live acoustic session and interview this fall in New York City. Check it out in the video below.

Of course, Smith could not put out his debut EP without “I Hate Alabama.” The song is the only track that Smith did not write, but the singer really brings life to the incredible tune. The slow-burn begins as the ultimate disdain towards Alabama Crimson Red Football team, but after one listen, fans will know that it is definitely not just that. Smith pours his heart out, sharing that the reason he truly hates Alabama is because he got his heart broken. Even Alabama-natives can understand that!

Finally, the record culminates with “Somewhere In A Small Town,” ironically the song that Smith often kicks off his live shows with. The song is fun, romantic, and enticing, all qualities that Smith also possesses.

Overall, Didn’t Go Too Far is a perfect example of how spectacular a debut EP can be for an artist. Smith is a breath of fresh air in country music. He knows how to craft a lyric like a pro, entice country fans across the spectrum, and create music that makes us all feel all pillars of a star in the making.

Learn more a out the rising star in our spotlight interview here. Want a chance to win a personalized video message from Conner Smith? Enter to win here.

Didn’t Go Too Far EP Tracklist:

  1. “College Town” (Conner Smith)
  2. “Learn From It” (Conner Smith, Daniel Ross)
  3. “Didn’t Go Too Far” (Conner Smith, Matt Dragstrem, Matt Jenkins)
  4. “Take It Slow” (Conner Smith, Ryan Hurd, Mark Trussell)
  5. “I Hate Alabama” (Nick Columbia, Drew Green, Hunter Phelps, Lee Starr)
  6. “Somewhere In A Small Town” (Conner Smith, Zach Crowell, Hunter Phelps)
Conner-smith-new-ep

Conner Smith’s debut EP ‘Didn’t Go Too Far” 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 Conner Smith releases.

To keep up with Conner Smith, follow him on Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, and Facebook.

Didn’t Go Too Far 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.

kidd-g-down-home-boy-deluxe

Kidd G: ‘Down Home Boy: Gone Since Last October (Deluxe)’ – Album Review

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Kidd G’s debut album Down Home Boy: Gone Since Last October (Deluxe) is out now, December 24th, on all streaming platforms. Check out our full review and listen to the brand new music below.

With almost one million followers on TikTok alone, Kidd G is leading the pack in this new wave of country music. His eclectic sound and honesty is attracting fans across the world. Today, the singer released his the deluxe version of his full-length album, Down Home Boy: Gone Since Last October.

Featuring eighteen original songs, the artist, whose real name is Jonathan Gabriel Horne, is a writer on all of the tracks. Kidd G features the four brand new songs first on the project. They include “I Don’t Wanna,” Last October,” “Use A Drink,” and “Only 16.” The singer co-wrote each of the four new tracks.

The first song is a fun-loving, jam that will resonate with the singer’s fanbase. The vibe continues you on “Use A Drink.” “Last October,” one of our favorite new songs is a song similar to the honest of Morgan Wallen’s “Livin’ The Dream.” The honesty continues on “Only 16.”

The project continues with some of the songs that started it all for the singer, including “Down Home Boy,” and “Paper Hearts (F-150).” The former is an ode to his upbringing, a common theme on the record. On the other hand, the latter is an introspective song that has fans flocking to him.

“Paper hearts in the glovebox of my F-150 (F-150) // And I might just take one out and light it up // And throw it out the window //Because I’m tipsy”

Similarly, Kidd G’s previously released song “Summer In A Small Town” has become a fan-favorite. The new song has summer romance, fun, and living the good life written all over it. Visually appealing both lyrically and within the music video, Kidd G makes every listener want to live in a small town. His country boy vocals are on full display in this fun-loving and sweet country song.

Kidd G leans into his romantic side even more on “What It’s Like,” “I Think I Love Her,” and “Ordinary Girl.” “What It’s Like” is a clever confession of liking someone. He utilizes country music staples with lyrics like “how does it feel to have a country boy’s heart racing,” as he professes his love for a special someone. On “I Think I Love Her,” the singer expresses his adoration and love for a girl yet again. If the first two songs are precursors to love, “Ordinary Girl” is a true-blue declaration of true love in a more modern and funky approach.

Leaning into his emo-music roots, “If Heaven Had A Phone” is one of the most poignant songs off the project. Anyone who has ever lost someone and missed someone can relate to this heartfelt and touching single. Kidd G leans into the vulnerability again on “Whiskey & Wine,” a fan-favorite song.

Kidd G puts words to a different kind of heartbreak on “Break Up Song.” The song starts off melancholy, but quickly reminds us of all the things that are waiting for us on the other side of a break-up. He is all of us on this catchy tune.

“The truth is I don’t believe a word that you said // The hard part is that I knew that you’re gone // The worst part is that I gotta move on // Yeah, the worst part is that I even had to make this song // Cheers to a break-up song”

On “Folks Back Home,” Kidd G clearly shares his story of growing up in the country. He shows pride for his small-town upbringing yet again. Finally, the record wraps with the pensive song, “Last Call.” Kidd G struggles with his demons from a broken relationship on the moody, yet captivating song.

Overall, Kidd G’s debut release is like nothing you have ever listened to before. And that’s a good thing! Clearly influenced by hip-hop, emo, and country music, Kidd G’s sound is one that’s all of his own. Fans should definitely give this record a listen.

Down Home Boy: Gone Since Last October Official Track List:
  1. “I Don’t Wanna” | Morgan O’Connor, William Keating, Michael Robinson, Jake Saghi, Blake Redferrin, Jonathan Gabriel Horne
  2. “Last October” | Mike Woods, Kevin White, Marc Scibilia, Jake Saghi, Jonathan Gabriel Horne
  3. “Use A Drink” | Juan Guerrieri-Maril, Nicole Spooner, Jonathan Gabriel Horne
  4. “Only 16” | Nicholas Thompson, Jake Mark Sordelet, Joseph Boyden, Jacob Saghi, Jonathan Gabriel Horne
  5.  “Down Home Boy” | Chris Destefano, Rhett Atkins, Jonathan Gabriel Horne
  6. “Paper Hearts (F-150)” | Jesse Frasure, Ernest Smith, Jonathan Gabriel Horne
  7. “What It’s Like” | Kyle Fishman, Ben Hayslip, Jonathan Gabriel Horne
  8. “If Heaven Had A Phone” | Bonnie Dymond, Jake Saghi, Jonathan Gabriel Horne
  9. “2000 & IDK” | Johann Elliot, Bonnie Dymond, Jonathan Gabriel Horne
  10. “Break Up Song” | Simon Jonasson, Nicole Spooner, Juan Guerrieri-Maril, Jonathan Gabriel Horne
  11. “Whiskey & Wine” | Bonnie Dymond, Christopher Luc Nyhus, Dantavius Walker, Jonathan Gabriel Horne
  12. “I Think I Love Her” | John Charles Reno Prentice, Jake Rose, Jonathan Gabriel Horne
  13. “Summer In A Small Town” | John Thomas “J.T.” Harding, Rhett Atkins, Jacob Rice, Jonathan Gabriel Horne
  14. “Ordinary Girl” | Morgan O’Connor, William Keating, Blake Hubbard, Jarrod Ingram, Jacob Saghi, Jonathan Gabriel Horne
  15. “UNKNWN Number” | Bonnie Dymond, Jonathan Gabriel Horne
  16. “You Could Use Me” | Bonnie Dymond, Jonathan Gabriel Horne
  17. “Folks Back Home” | Bonnie Dymond, Lawrence Stoll, Ryan Jeffrey Anderson,  Jonathan Gabriel Horne
  18. “Last Call” | Bonnie Dymond, Jonathan Gabriel Horne
kidd-g-down-home-boy-deluxe-album

Kidd G released a deluxe version of his debut album, out now.

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

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

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

Blake-shelton-body-language-deluxe

Blake Shelton: ‘Body Language Deluxe’ – Album Review

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Country superstar, Blake Shelton released the deluxe version of his eleventh studio album Body Language on Friday (December 3), containing four new tracks including his current single “Come Back As A Country Boy.” Keep reading below as we discuss these tracks in more detail.

Blake Shelton has had a legendary career in country music, making him a celebrity inside the genre and out. With six platinum records, 28 number-one singles, and nine GRAMMY-nominations, Shelton will go down as one of the biggest artists in country music history. His ability to blend modern and traditional country sounds has allowed him to stay at the forefront of the genre.

Jordan Schmidt and HARDY received writing credits on the first two songs. “Come Back As A Country Boy” has a similar vibe to his 4x Platinum smash hit, “God’s Country,” paying homage to country life and the hard-working, small town folk. Like “God’s Country,” “Come Back As A Country Boy” contains backing steel-guitar and woodsy sounds. “Fire Up The Night” is tailgate party anthem which also features HARDY’s vocals. The two describe what needs to happen to get the good time started. Florida Georgia Line’s Brian Kelley also helped pen this song, along with Bart Butler.

The other two songs are placed on the back of the record. “Throw It On Back” is another fun, drinking tune featuring iconic 90s country duo, Brooks & Dunn. They discuss the feeling they get when they revert back to old-school items, styles, and songs. The project concludes with a love song Shelton co-wrote with Craig Wiseman titled “We Can Reach The Stars.”  Shelton sings about how strong the love is between him and his romantic partner and how it allows them to overcome even the most difficult of times.

Body Language Deluxe Tracklist:

  1. Come Back As A Country Boy
  2. Fire Up The Night (feat. HARDY)
  3. Minimum Wage
  4. Body Language (feat. The Swon Brothers)
  5. Happy Anywhere (feat. Gwen Stefani)
  6. Now I Don’t
  7. Monday Morning Missin’ You
  8. Corn
  9. Makin’ It Up As You Go
  10. Whatcha Doin’ Tomorrow
  11. The Girl Can’t Help It
  12. The Flow
  13. Neon Time
  14. Bible Verses
  15. Throw It On Back (feat. Brooks & Dunn)  
  16. We Can Reach The Stars
Blake-shelton-new-album

Blake Shelton releases the deluxe version of his album ‘body language’ out now.

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

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

Body Language Deluxe 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.