Drew Parker ‘While You’re Gone’ EP Review

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Drew Parker’s songs on While You’re Gone formally introduce listeners to the artist through a full collection of music. Learn more about the project below.

After four single releases that led up to this highly-anticipated project, Drew Parker has officially released While You’re Gone. In fact, this EP comes just seven days shy of the one year anniversary of the first single, “Party in the Back”, that introduced this new chapter of music. Now, the fourth track on the setlist that was linguistically created by the artist himself along with Ray Fulcher and Thomas Archer, is joined with some of the best productions that traditional country music has to offer with a wide range of emotions in tow.

“Party in the Back” is playful and clever for the recognition of Billy Ray Cyrus’ 1992 hit “Achy Breaky Heart” and calling attention to his mullet of the decade. While others, such as “I Was Lying” that acted as the second single release to tease this collection, touched on a softer side. This one, written by Adam Craig and Parker, denotes a scenario in which lying through a breakup is easier than facing the truth.

Drew Parker

 

The title track “While You’re Gone”, is more of a broad, outsider’s perspective of a recent goodbye while the story in “I Was Lying”, sums up this versatile project in a simple way by showcasing all sides of the artist in one take. There’s rough-edged vocals as well as vulnerable notes incorporated throughout. And, the strength from this Georgia musician is generously portrayed through the EP. While You’re Gone is a promising, exciting displayal of growth and maturity from Parker. Each cut is as successfully executed as the next.

As the newest SiriusXM “Highway Find” artist, Parker sets the bar high for upcoming country acts. With an incredibly honest song “The Runway”, that ended up being a premature tribute for his now 6-month old daughter, and all adjoining numbers, While You’re Gone provides listeners with the idea that country music has another breakthrough artist in their midst.

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

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

While You’re Gone is now available everywhere you buy or stream music. Take a listen below and check out more 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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Mitchell Tenpenny: Neon Christmas – EP Review

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Mitchell Tenpenny’s brand new Christmas EP Neon Christmas is available now, October 23rd on all streaming platforms. Take a look below as we dig a little deeper into the new songs off the special holiday project.

One of our absolute favorite singer-songwriters, Mitchell Tenpenny has one of the most distinct voices in country music. His signature sound has gained him boatloads of fans across the globe. After gifting us with an original Christmas song, “Naughty List” last year, the singer took it a step further showcasing his love for the holiday season a little bit more with a full Christmas EP. Today, Tenpenny released his EP entitled Neon Christmas, which features four incredible covers of some of our favorite holiday classics as well as three original new tunes.

Despite the fact that some of the songs are covers and some are originals, Tenpenny finds a way to make every song feel fresh and new. Renditions of Christmas classics like “O Holy Night” and “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” remind us how powerful and effortless the singer’s vocals truly are. Both songs showcase his talent in an undeniable way.

The other two covers of songs, “Let It Snow! Let It Snow Let It Snow!” And “Joy to the World” feature a more rock-country element to them. The former could literally be an original Mitchell Tenpenny song. Tenpenny finds a way to make the classic sound brand new, while on “Joy to the World,” the singer delivers a smooth, vibey anthem.

Of course, Tenpenny shines on his original songs. Although many artists try their hand at reimagining Christmas songs, the artist finds a way to deliver three brand new tracks that actually have appeal during the holiday season. Arguably our favorite, the previously released jam, “Naughty List,” is one of Tenpenny’s best. The song reminds us of how it feels to be in love during Christmastime.

“I’m gon’ end up on the naughty list / And Santa’s gonna take back all my gifts / With kisses sweeter than the cookies that we left up by the chimney / Tell me, baby, how could I resist”

The other two originals, “Snow Angels” and the title track, “Neon Christmas” are equally as enticing for different reasons. “Snow Angels” is a romantic and sensual song with an R&B flair. Tenpenny pushes the boundaries on this song in all the right ways. On the other hand, “Neon Christmas” is all about making the best out of a snow delay and having Christmas under the neon lights of a bar. We love the unique visuals that the song evokes.

“We have a neon Christmas, baby don’t you know / Yeah, as long as we’re together it don’t matter where we go / If a cold beer, corner booth, or a I’ve bar stool’s on your wish list / We can have a neon Christmas”

Mitchell Tenpenny's holiday EP, 'Neon Christmas' is available everywhere now, October 23rd

Mitchell Tenpenny’s holiday EP, ‘Neon Christmas’ is available everywhere now, October 23rd

Overall, Neon Christmas might be one of our favorite new holiday records. Tenpenny finds a way to reinvigorate the classics while giving us new jams to play all season long! As the singer said on his social media, “Happy Merry Fuckin Christmas.”

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

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

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

Neon Christmas EP Tracklist:

  1. O Holy Night
  2. Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!
  3. Snow Angels
  4. Neon Christmas
  5. Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas
  6. Joy to the World
  7. Naughty List

 

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The Hero Collection by NYCountry Swag is inspired by the men and women of the Fire, Police and Military Departments across the country. Specially selected foundations that support our heroes will receive donations from each purchase. Honoring their service and remembering their sacrifice is what we are dedicated to.

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Track45: Small Town – EP Review

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Country music’s newest trio, Track45, introduces their debut project, Small Town EP via Stoney Creek Records. Available today, October 23rd on all streaming platforms, take a look below as we dive deeper into the collection of songs.

Track45 Small Town EP, available now, October 23rd

Track45 introduces their debut project, “Small Town” EP, available now, October 23rd.

A new family-oriented band has landed in Nashville. The trio, now dubbed as Track45, are officially introducing themselves with an EP titled Small Town. Siblings Jenna, Ben, and KK Johnson, originally from Mississippi, offer three tracks that provide listeners with the first look at their multifaceted artistry and honest roots.

“We moved to Nashville with a big dream,” says the members of Track45 in a recent press release. “We’re so proud that our first EP, Small Town, tells the story of who we are and where we’re from. We poured our hearts into this project, and we hope people love it as much as we do!”

Though the group is new to releasing their own music and being a part of a record label, each individual artist has been successful behind the scenes in publishing and songwriting. In fact, Ben has just received his first #1 as a songwriter with Lee Brice’s “One of Them Girls”. Other cuts with their involvement include artists such as Justin Timberlake, Charlie Puth, HARDY, and Lauren Alaina.

Now, Track45 has taken the spotlight by writing songs for their own voice. “Come On In”, the introduction track to Small Town, acts as a musical greeting to, essentially, the world. Lyrically, the story brings awareness to the close-knit family and growing up in Meridian, Mississippi. At the same time, though, it’s a call to action for any listener to come on in.

“Me + You” is a more stripped production that showcases the broad range of the band in regards to delivering soft, delicate tones as well as strong harmonies through attractive storytelling. The vocal contribution throughout the track is arranged in a way to familiarize oneself with the talent present. For instance, Ben works both inside and outside of the adjoining voices until a moment is designated for him to incorporate a mature male lead that adds a new layer to the already captivating performance.

The last, but certainly not the least, on the EP, “Met Me Now” seems to focus primarily on country music influences. It’s wholesome with an intent to retrace steps of the past in order to make things right with a certain someone. Though, there’s a growth in the comparison of the “now vs. then” self-reflection that is uplifting and motivating.

The southern hospitality does not go unnoticed both through lyric and theory. Track45 balances small-town values and stories through an invigorating blend of genres relating to country, R&B, pop, and rock in a modern way.

To learn more about Track45, watch the video below that acts as a little piece of their story.

Fans can join our Weekly Round-Up e-newsletter here, for the latest in country music and more news about future Track45 releases.

To keep up with Track45, follow them on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

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

 

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SHOP THE HERO COLLECTION

The Hero Collection by NYCountry Swag is inspired by the men and women of the Fire, Police and Military Departments across the country. Specially selected foundations that support our heroes will receive donations from each purchase. Honoring their service and remembering their sacrifice is what we are dedicated to.

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Thank You for supporting Country Music in NYC & Beyond!

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The Cadillac Three: ‘Tabasco and Sweet Tea’ – Album Review

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The Cadillac Three’s brand new album, TABASCO & SWEET TEA is available now, October 23rd on all streaming platforms. Take a look below as we dive deeper into the collection of songs in our full album review.

The Cadillac Three new album TABASCO & SWEET TEA

The Cadillac Three’s brand new album, TABASCO & SWEET TEA is available now

If fans were unclear of the sounds that influenced The Cadillac Three, vibes off their latest album TABASCO & SWEET TEA make clear the effect old rock favorites have had by effortlessly weaving that quality into this release.

Eleven songs of pure grit and rock with a contemporary country twist transport this collection to another realm of music; one that could gain them new fans. The band’s COUNTRY FUZZ came out in February, but together they knew they had more to give to their fans and deeper musical exploration to uncover.

Lead singer and guitarist Jaren Johnston describes the album as a science project, noting that it’s, “constantly moving in different directions,” and he could not have hit the nail on the head any better. Hip-inducing grooves and classic country lyrics constantly make you unsure of whether you’re at a rock concert or out on an old back road, but the marriage of the two creates an atmosphere of comfort. The fans can’t have in-person concerts right now, but jamming to this album gives you an iconic close replicate.

Written by Johnston, Alysa Vanderheym, and Ben Burgess, the opening track “Tabasco & Sweet Tea” is sure to make you hungry, with mentions of Blue Bell hot fudge, jerky, and sugar cane. Electric guitar solos and a solid backbeat make this a surefire dive bar listen.

The 80’s funk and hip hop fusion create just one of the hybrid sounds on this eleven-track album on “Head Over Wheels”. Expertly crafted bass lines underneath syncopated rhythms bring modern innovations to classic standards. Drummer Neil Mason goes on to say, “As we finished the last record, we knew we were only tapping the surface with songs like ‘The Jam’ for where we could go next musically and found ourselves inspired to dive into these sounds that we had never explored before as a band.”

Taking risks by traversing new territory has paid off in new types of sounds that fans can most definitely appreciate something different from a classic country song and sound.

“Bridges” has a rockin’ beat, but sneaks quite a life lesson in its lyrics, reminding listeners that all of our choices have consequences, and only by experience can you learn to decipher the ones meant for you.

“You’ve got to make your decision / Bridges, We live we learn which ones to cross which ones to burn”

“Money Ain’t Shit” starts off with a jammin’ guitar solo and deep gritty verse that transitions into a smooth belted chorus and a dynamic drop pause that is extremely captivating. “Turn the Radio On” follows suit with quick spoken verse lines that make for an easy fan sing-along at a concert.

As many of their fans are forced to explore new areas of their own lives, TC3 provides a soundtrack to which they did the same, turning over a new leaf in their sound and continuing to create. The feel may be influenced by the classics, conjuring a familiar feeling we all need right now to encourage forward motion. Anything but vintage though, the chic conversion of the old in TABASCO & SWEET TEA strike an innovative chord, projecting good vibes for the road ahead.

On October 27, TC3 will debut songs from TABASCO & SWEET TEA with a livestream for audiences in North America at 7:00P CT and UK/Europe at 20:00 CET.

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

To keep up with The Cadillac Three, follow them on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

Tabasco & Sweet Tea 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.

 

NYCS Picks:
“Tabasco and Sweet Tea”
“Money Ain’t Shit”
“Turn the Radio On”

 

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SHOP THE HERO COLLECTION

The Hero Collection by NYCountry Swag is inspired by the men and women of the Fire, Police and Military Departments across the country. A portion of sales from each purchase is donated to different foundations that support our heroes. We are dedicated to honoring their service and remembering their sacrifice.

—————————-

Thank You for supporting Country Music in NYC & Beyond!

Subscribe to our Weekly Round-Up here 
for ticket giveaways, meet & greet contests, upcoming events,
and all things country music in the New York metro area and beyond!

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Maddie and Tae: We Need Christmas – Album Review

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Maddie and Tae’s first-ever Christmas project, We Need Christmas, is available now, October 23rd. Filled with holiday classics and two original songs, you’ll instantly be in the holiday spirit and have hope going into 2020.

Maddie And Tae We Need Christmas

Maddie and Tae’s holiday project, “We Need Christmas” is available now, October 23rd

Maddie and Tae’s Christmas six-song project, We Need Christmas, is here and will instantly put you in the holiday spirit. And boy, after the year we’ve all had, we need it.

While covering the classics “This Christmas”, “Holly Jolly Christmas”, “Oh Come All Ye Faithful” the duo not only showcases their originality but their harmonizing talent. Their slowed-down version of “Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)”, is nothing like we’ve ever heard before. With just a guitar and their powerful vocals, it’s a beautiful and emotional rendition that everyone needs to hear.

“Merry Married Christmas” is the first of two original songs on the project. Written by both girls along with Tae’s husband, Josh Kerr, this song is the perfect holiday love song. No matter if you’re newlyweds or been married for fifty years, spending quality time with your significant other during the holidays is the best gift there is.

The title track, “We Need Christmas”, finishes out the album and will certainly become a classic. Written again by the duo Maddie & Tae along with Matthew West and AJ Pruis, this song is the perfect reminder of why the holidays are such a special time. There’s nothing like traveling back home to spend time with your loved ones enjoying your favorite traditions such as watching your favorite holiday specials. This year has been hard on everyone and this track gives us hope that the Christmas season will bring us the love and sense of togetherness we all need going into 2021.

“This world can use a little healing // Our hearts can surely use something to believe in // We need Christmas // Now more than ever bring us together”

In a recent press release, the award-winning duo shared what this project means to them. “We are so proud of this project and we loved recreating some of our favorite Christmas classics as well as writing some of our own. Making We Need Christmas was such a bright spot for us this year and we hope this project brings a little joy and peace to our fans during this difficult year.”

Maddie and Tae’s Christmas album is a special one and will certainly be on repeat all season long.

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

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

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

 

—————

SHOP THE HERO COLLECTION

The Hero Collection by NYCountry Swag is inspired by the men and women of the Fire, Police and Military Departments across the country. Specially selected foundations that support our heroes will receive donations from each purchase. Honoring their service and remembering their sacrifice is what we are dedicated to.

—————————-

Thank You for supporting Country Music in NYC & Beyond!

Subscribe to our Weekly Round-Up here 
for ticket giveaways, meet & greet contests, upcoming events,
and all things country music in the New York metro area and beyond!

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Luke Combs: What You See Ain’t Always What You Get Album Review

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Luke Combs’ brand new deluxe record What You See Ain’t Always What You Get is available now, October 23rd on all streaming platforms. Take a look below as dig a little deeper into the new songs off the deluxe record.

Luke Combs Deluxe

Luke Combs’ What You See Ain’t Always What You Get Deluxe Album is available now

Last year, country superstar Luke Combs released his sophomore record titled What You See Is What You Get, full of 17 original songs. The album quickly went to the top of the charts, achieved platinum status, and boasts four number-one singles so far. If that wasn’t enough for fans to be excited about, Combs decided to release a deluxe version of his latest project, cleverly changing the name to What You See Ain’t Always What You Get. The album features five new tracks that prove once again why Combs is one of the best in country music.

Keeping with his traditional meets modern sound and soulful voice, Combs makes an already incredible project that much better with the addition of the new tracks. “Six Feet Apart,” which was later added to the original album touched the hearts of fans everywhere with its poignant message during these unprecedented times that 2020 has found us in. The somber ballad is truthful and inspiring, reminding us all that “there’ll be crowds and there’ll be shows” and of course, “there will be light after dark.”

Combs’ collaboration with violinist, Amanda Shires, “Without You” was also released before the record. Similar to one of our favorite deep cuts, “This One’s For You” off his debut record, “Without You” is sentimental, honest, and highly personal. The new song is the ultimate expression of gratitude to all that have helped him get to this point in his career.

For fans, who prefer the high-energy side of Combs, the singer added songs like “Cold As You” and “My Kinda Folk” to the project. Along the same lines as “Beer Never Broke My Heart” and “Does to Me,” the former compares a girl to a beer, calling her “cold.” The ultimate diss is as clever as the song is catchy.

The latter, “The “My Kinda Folk” fits in line with his song “Blue Collar Boys.” Combs is always reminding us that he is humble to his core and that he knows exactly who he is and where he came from. Both these songs are a must-play when concert season finally rolls around again!

“There oughta be a law against working this hard and still having this much fun / We get it done, drink a beer, catch a fish, hunt a deer and then we’ll  fire up a little smoke / Me and my kinda folk”

 “The Other Guy” is a mid-tempo song off the new project. All heart, Combs proves that he feels things deeply. The emotive track is all about a guy who looks like he is doing well on the outside but is still grieving over his ex. Truly relatable, the song has Combs’ stamp on it.

“You should see the other guy that’s missing you / and late at night he’s wishing you would come back home  / girl, he can’t move on  / and his heart still takes a beating just living with your leaving / and it might look like I’m doing alright / but you should see the other guy”

Finally, the deluxe record ends with the touching, heartfelt song “Forever After All.” The singer originally teased a clip of this song on TikTok back in August, and fans obviously went crazy for it. Clearly inspired by his now-wife, Nicole, Combs is giving us a love song that completes the trilogy of hit songs that have come before, including “Beautiful Crazy” and “Better Together.” The ballad reflects how love knows no bounds and will truly last forever even in death.

Time and time again, Combs proves his staying power. The singer-songwriter is as real as it gets. As long as he continues to be true to himself, stick to his roots, and release music, the fans, and the success will follow. What You See Ain’t Always What You Get is just a bonus on an already incredible career and record!

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

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

What You See Ain’t Always What You Get 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.

 

What You See Ain’t Always What You Get Tracklist:

  1. Beer Never Broke My Heart
  2. Refrigerator Door
  3. Even Though I’m Leaving
  4. Lovin’ on You
  5. Moon Over Mexico
  6. 1, 2 Many
  7. Blue Collar Boys
  8. New Every Day
  9. Reasons
  10. Every Little Bit Helps
  11. Dear Today
  12. What You See Is What You Get
  13. Does to Me (feat. Eric Church)
  14. Angels Workin’ Overtime
  15. All Over Again
  16. Nothing Like You
  17. Better Together
  18. Six Feet Apart
  19. Cold As You
  20. The Other Guy
  21. My Kinda Folk
  22. Without You (feat. Amanda Shires)
  23. Forever After All

 

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SHOP THE HERO COLLECTION

The Hero Collection by NYCountry Swag is inspired by the men and women of the Fire, Police and Military Departments across the country. Specially selected foundations that support our heroes will receive donations from each purchase. Honoring their service and remembering their sacrifice is what we are dedicated to.

—————————-

Thank You for supporting Country Music in NYC & Beyond!

Subscribe to our Weekly Round-Up here 
for ticket giveaways, meet & greet contests, upcoming events,
and all things country music in the New York metro area and beyond!

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Trace Adkins: Ain’t That Kind of Cowboy – EP Review

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Trace Adkins’ latest EP, Ain’t That Kind of Cowboy is available now, October 16th on all streaming platforms. Take a look below as we dive deeper into the collection of songs in our full review.

After nearly four years since new music from Trace Adkins, a new EP Ain’t That Kind of Cowboy has been released, marking his first project since joining Verge Records Nashville. Still, the six-track release is a continuation of the well-known, lively, and deep-southern-rooted style from the “You’re Gonna Miss This” and “Ladies Love Country Boys’” performer.

The title track acts as the third on the setlist and includes moments of raw sentiment and country-style storytelling. It utilizes a few different approaches through production in regards to Adkins’ heavy tone among stripped chords as well as, primarily in the chorus, more present accompaniment that creates a strong and confident “take it or leave it” feel. “Ain’t That Kind of Cowboy” seemingly points out all the creative and artistic elements that this seasoned musician is capable of since releasing his debut album, Dreamin’ Out Loud, over 20 years ago in 1996.

“Running Into You”, a ballad written by James Slater and Tony Lane, showcases the softness and delicacy of Adkins, who often records heartfelt cuts. Though, there’s something different about this arrangement that stands out. Bart Butler, the producer of the collection, in addition to Adkins and the instrumentalists, maintained a sincerity throughout the process that affects listeners in a way for all emotions involved to be delivered at full force.

A track that annotates a broken heart and explores the aftermath, “Running Into You” covers scenarios in which the person who has said goodbye hasn’t entirely left.

“Round the corners of my heart // Waiting there to take me there again // In the shadows and the light // In the morning and the midnight // When the leaves are still blowing in the wind // That’s when”

Ain’t That Kind of Cowboy is an exciting sneak peek to Adkins’ journey with Verge Records Nashville. In fact, with over 8 million streams in seven months since “Better Off” was released as a single, the EP’s introduction track, the Louisiana native seems to have a lot left up his sleeve. Check out Adkins’ performance of “Better Off” that aired on “TODAY with Hoda and Jenna” from the Grand Ole Opry.

“It was a lot of fun to get back into the studio with Mickey Jack (Cones) and work with Bart (Butler) on this EP, and I couldn’t be prouder of these songs from some of my favorite writers,” shares Adkins in a recent press release. “I’m looking forward to what’s to come.”

Ain't That Kind of Cowboy Trace Adkins

Trace Adkins’ latest EP, “Ain’t That Kind of Cowboy”, is available now, October 16th.

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

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

Ain’t That Kind of Cowboy EP is now available everywhere you buy or stream music. Take a listen below and check out more new recently released music on our ‘New Country Music’ playlist. Be sure to the playlist a follow for your weekly new country music fix.

 

—————

SHOP THE HERO COLLECTION

The Hero Collection by NYCountry Swag is inspired by the men and women of the Fire, Police and Military Departments across the country. Specially selected foundations that support our heroes will receive donations from each purchase. Honoring their service and remembering their sacrifice is what we are dedicated to.

—————————-

Thank You for supporting Country Music in NYC & Beyond!

Subscribe to our Weekly Round-Up here 
for ticket giveaways, meet & greet contests, upcoming events,
and all things country music in the New York metro area and beyond!

+ Follow our country music adventures on Instagram, Twitter & Facebook:

Runaway June: When I Think About Christmas – EP Review

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Runaway June’s first-ever holiday EP, When I Think About Christmas, is available now, October 16th on all streaming platforms. Check out our full EP Review below as we dive deeper into the collection of songs.

Releasing their first-ever holiday project, When I Think About Christmas, Runaway June are bringing the holiday spirit to fans a little early this year. The five-song EP features three well-known Christmas classics and two new original tracks. Although it’s only October, we’re more than ready to curl up next to the fire, hot chocolate in hand, with Runaway June playing on the record player.

“Christmas On The Radio,” written by Sam Hollander and Martin Johnson, is the first original on the project to make its debut and is a perfectly hand-crafted reference guide to all things Christmas. Silver bells, classic hits from Otis Redding, and Nat King Cole.

“When I Think About Christmas” is the second original and serves as the title track of the project. Written by Runaway June member Jennifer Wayne, Josh Matheny, and Tiffany Goss, the song pays homage to conventional country in the sweetest way: swing-laced instrumentation, pure joy, and your loved one.

“When I think about Christmas // I don’t worry ‘bout the cold // I’m covered up in all your kisses // C’mon baby let it snow” 

“O Holy Night” strays away from any traditional version with elegant and flawless harmonies. Of course, the holiday season just isn’t complete without the classic tune, “Let It Snow” and Runaway June’s beautiful upbeat version concludes the jolly project with glistening bells.

“Our new Christmas EP, When I Think About Christmas has all of these beautiful mountain Appalachian sounds,” said Runaway June’s Naomi Cooke, Wayne, and Natalie Stovall. “So we put our own little spin on Christmas music and we’ve got some fiddle so why not!” The trio continued to share in an Instagram post, “It’s been a long crazy year, and working on this music has felt so liberating from the madness of the world. When we think about “Christmas” we think of family, peace, rest, love and reflection, gratitude, celebration, and we wanted this music to be the soundtrack of what Christmas is to us and hopefully spread a little of that to all of you through this project.”

Singer-songwriter and fiddle player Natalie Stovall recently joined the band after Hannah Mulholland left the group. Members Naomi Cooke and Jennifer Wayne announced Stovall’s addition shortly after Mulholland announced that she was leaving, simply because she wanted to be in California with her husband and family.

Runaway June When I Think About Christmas

Runaway June’s first-ever holiday EP, When I Think About Christmas, is available now, October 16th.

When I Think About Christmas EP Tracklist:
1. Christmas On The Radio (Runaway June Original – Sam Hollander, Martin Johnson)
2. Sleigh Ride (Leroy Anderson, Mitchell Parish)
3. O Holy Night (Traditional Holiday Song)
4. When I Think About Christmas (Runaway June Original – Jennifer Wayne, Josh Matheny, Tiffany Goss)
5. Let It Snow – (Julie Styn, Sammy Cahn)

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

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

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

 

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SHOP THE HERO COLLECTION

The Hero Collection by NYCountry Swag is inspired by the men and women of the Fire, Police and Military Departments across the country. Specially selected foundations that support our heroes will receive donations from each purchase. Honoring their service and remembering their sacrifice is what we are dedicated to.

—————————-

Thank You for supporting Country Music in NYC & Beyond!

Subscribe to our Weekly Round-Up here 
for ticket giveaways, meet & greet contests, upcoming events,
and all things country music in the New York metro area and beyond!

+ Follow our country music adventures on Instagram, Twitter & Facebook:

Matt Stell ‘Better Than That’ EP Review

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Matt Stell’s new 8-track extended play, Better Than That, dropped today and is available now on all streaming platforms. Take a look below as we dive deeper into the project.

SONY Nashville recording artist, Matt Stell released a new EP titled Better Than That today (October 16th) containing eight songs, four previously released tracks, and four brand new ones. Stell produced the EP with Ash Bowers and has writing credits on five songs.

“Everywhere But On,” originally featured on his EP of the same name, begins the record. It is about a man who has moved all over the country to try and get over this particular girl, but no location can erase his memory of her. This track hit number six on Country Airplay last week and continues to climb to the top of the charts. “Prayed For You,” ironically, reached the top spot the same time last year and has racked up over 75 million streams to date.  In this track, the singer found a girl he never met but knew she was the one he always wanted.

Better Than That EP Matt Stell

Matt Stell – Photo Credit Dustin Haney

Other previously released tracks include “If I Was A Bar” and the title track. The latter of which tells the story of two old flames at the same bar. Despite wanting to say hello, the ex-boyfriend holds back as a new guy steps in to make a move, calling out every wrong gesture the new guy is making. Stell knows she deserves better than that. “If I Was A Bar” is another breakup song. In this one, he describes how if he was a bar, the ‘getting over her’ process would be must faster. In the last song, he is upset at the bar and feeling bad for himself, but in this one, there’s a hint of anger and resentment still left in him. These tracks contain heavy electric guitar and percussion, displaying his rock-n-roll influence.

The first of the new tracks is “I Love You Too,” which sounds like it would be a sweet love song. However, the singer describes a relationship where the woman has settled with a man who does not reciprocate the same amount of love and effort the woman does. Stell is telling this story from the third-person, so we are not sure if he had any relationship to the two in the story, but one can speculate that this song is about the same girl from “Better Than That.”

With young love comes immediate infatuation and a lot of mistakes made, and Stell paints that picture beautifully in the next track. “Sadie” is a somber, folk-influenced song that, although not written by Stell, could be very personal to him. The singer admits his wrong and confesses that he would do anything to get this girl back. It is impressive when such a personal song like this can relate to almost anyone who has been in a relationship at a young age.

“Sadie / If you need to k-k-keep me waiting / Just do what you got to, girl / I-I-I-I-I-I-I’d start a riot for ya /  I-I-I-I-I-I-I’d fall in the fire for ya”

“Chase It Down” is about gaining the courage to leave your hometown to follow your dream. People from the singer’s hometown generally end up staying there forever, but him and his girl are determined to make a name for themselves. The final song, “Look At Me Now” has the potential to become a common first dance-wedding song. A troubled man’s life was turned around when he met the love of his life. He went from a lone “hell-raiser” to tearing up watching his soon-to-be wife walk down the aisle.

“Look at me now, tears in my eyes / Even though I swore that I wouldn’t cry / Lost in the second I saw you in that dress and your daddy was walking you down / Thought I’d never do this but look at me”

Stell sings from the heart, and listeners can hear his honesty and humbleness in these eight, terrific tracks. He has shown country music his versatility as he has something for everyone: heartbreak, love, and vengefulness, all demonstrated in different ways sonically. He is open and honest with his fans which makes us feel a part of his life and leave us wanting to hear more stories. That is an incredible trait of any new artist. Expect to see his name atop the charts for years to come.

NYCS Picks:

  1. Sadie
  2. Look At Me Now

BETTER THAN THAT EP TRACKLISTING

  1. Everywhere But On– Matt Stell, Paul Sikes, and Lance Miller
    2. If I Was a Bar     – Dan Isbell, Zack Kale, and Jonathan Singleton
    3. Prayed For You – Matt Stell, Ash Bowers, and Allison Veltz
    4. Better Than That-Matt Stell, Joe Fox, and Phil Barton
    5. I Love You Too – Matt Stell, Seth Alley, and Ryan Peterson
    6. Sadie – Nate Cyphert, Sam Roman, Parrish Warrington, and Diederik van Elsas
    7. Chase it Down – Matt Stell, Jarrod Ingram, Blake Hubbard, and Brian Maher
    8. Look at Me Now – Joe Fox, Seth Ennis, and Thomas Finchum

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

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

Better Than That is now 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.

—————

SHOP THE HERO COLLECTION

The Hero Collection by NYCountry Swag is inspired by the men and women of the Fire, Police and Military Departments across the country. Specially selected foundations that support our heroes will receive donations from each purchase. Honoring their service and remembering their sacrifice is what we are dedicated to.

—————————-

Thank You for supporting Country Music in NYC & Beyond!

Subscribe to our Weekly Round-Up here 
for ticket giveaways, meet & greet contests, upcoming events,
and all things country music in the New York metro area and beyond!

+ Follow our country music adventures on Instagram, Twitter & Facebook:

Parker McCollum: Hollywood Gold – EP Review

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Parker McCollum’s major-label debut EP Hollywood Gold is available now, October 16th on all streaming platforms. Watch below in our Up Close & Virtual Interview as we chat with McCollum about the new music + read our full EP Review below as we dive deeper into the collection of songs.

Texas native and NYCountry Swag 2020 Artist to Watch, Parker McCollum signed with MCA Nashville/UMG Nashville last year, and since then, has garnered thousands and thousands of fans across the nation. Today marks the release of his brand new EP, his major-label debut Hollywood Gold.

The EP is a dedication to McCollum’s craft, his fans, and of course his loved ones. It’s name pays homage to the singer-songwriters grandfather, his prized horse, and the message his grandfather always taught him to “just keep swinging.” His grandfather also played a role in why the singer chose to record the only song off the record that he did not write, “Like A Cowboy.” Written by Chris Stapleton and Al Anderson, the tune is a pensive song about having an internal identity conflict.

“Girl I will love you the best that I can / But you need to know that I am what I am / And I’m not a bad guy, but I’m not a good guy at heart”

On “Young Man’s Blues,” McCollum shares his version of home and what his home has ingrained in him. His vulnerability and honesty in this song is unparalleled. Similarly, fan-favorite tune, “Hallie Ray Light” showcases the same type of honesty and relatability. Named after his girlfriend, the song focuses on showing affection to a new lover.

The lead single “Pretty Heart” is steadily climbing the charts and has truly touched the hearts of fans across the nation. The achingly beautiful declaration of remorse for a break-up is the songwriting country music deserves.

“What does it say about me / Now that I’ve broke your pretty heart / Your pretty heart”

The closing track “Love You Like That” is another standout. The singer-songwriter confesses his insecurities in love as he sings about feeling like he could fly with his girl, but he doesn’t know if he can do the same despite promising everything to try.

“I never really had no peace of mind / I’m a running heart / Living fast / I never understand you putting up with that / Cause I’m the same man that I’ve always been / And I hope that that’s the man you’re loving in the end”

Of course, each of the six tracks off the record paints a unique picture, running the gamut of the human experience, all of which showcase McCollum’s talent at connecting to fans. “If I’m going to sing these songs every night, I’ve gotta mean the things I”m singing about. I can’t fake it,” declared McCollum in a recent press release.

Hollywood Gold Parker McCollum

Parker McCollum’s debut EP, Hollywood Gold, is available now, October 16th.

It has been a long time coming for McCollum, whose lifelong dream has finally been recognized with this project. Overall, each track puts a modern twist on true-blue traditional country music, without blurring the genre lines. His roots in Texas country music are truly embedded in his signature sound. If this is any inclination of what a full-length project will look like from the artist, fans are in for a real treat, because the singer-songwriter’s staying power is undeniable.

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

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

 

NYCS Picks:

  1. “Pretty Heart”
  2. “Love You Like That”

Hollywood Gold EP Tracklist:

  1. Young Man’s Blues
  2. Like A Cowboy
  3. Pretty Heart
  4. Hallie Ray Light
  5. Hold Me Back
  6. Love You Like That

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

 

—————

SHOP THE HERO COLLECTION

The Hero Collection by NYCountry Swag is inspired by the men and women of the Fire, Police and Military Departments across the country. Specially selected foundations that support our heroes will receive donations from each purchase. Honoring their service and remembering their sacrifice is what we are dedicated to.

—————————-

Thank You for supporting Country Music in NYC & Beyond!

Subscribe to our Weekly Round-Up here 
for ticket giveaways, meet & greet contests, upcoming events,
and all things country music in the New York metro area and beyond!

+ Follow our country music adventures on Instagram, Twitter & Facebook: