NYCS First Impression: Gone West ‘Canyons’

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Gone West Canyons

It officially feels like summer. The weather is warm, you can smell the summer rain before it hits, and the wind is blowing in that windows-down way that only occurs over the next few months. As places and cities start to re-open and life starts to resume in a revised way, new music is just the thing needed to kick off this new chapter of life. Gone West’s debut album, Canyons is perfect for all these things — summer, slowing down, reflecting, and beginnings.

The album’s opener is “Gone West”, a self-titled song that sums up the band’s story. In some way or another, each band member goes west to feel recharged and to feel like themselves. Whether it be Texas, Hawaii, California, Iowa, or their current home, Nashville, they’ve “gone west to bring the best back” with them. The band consists of four members: Colbie Callait, Nelly Joy, Jason Reeves, and Justin Kawika Young. Callait and Reeves have been close friends for over a decade, writing and producing songs like the award-winning “Bubbly” and the hit “I Never Told You”. Reeves is married to Joy, a fellow singer-songwriter, and is close friends with Callait. Young and Callait were formerly engaged and has been Callait’s guitar player for over a decade, and has had his own impressive solo career. Together, the four formed a band.

Songs like “Slow Down”, “Knew You” and “Tides” all have the beachy, ethereal vibes of Callait’s Californian and Young’s Hawaiian roots. “Slow Down” was written by the band and producer Jamie Kenney. “You make me want to slow down/Baby, make it easy/I’ll take the long way ‘round/Just as long as you’re with me”, the band harmonizes on the chorus. “Slow Down” sounds like driving down the California coast. Channeling their love of Bob Marley is “Knew You”, the reggae-country breakup jam that is perfect to listen to at the beach.

Despite this being the debut album from Gone West, they have such a distinct sound that is heard throughout the entire record. It’s reminiscent of Callait and Young’s earlier work and similar to the music of Jack Johnson and Gavin DeGraw. It’s a perfect blend of country, folk, pop, and reggae rolled into one.

There are quite a few breakup songs sung by Callait and Young that fit the theme of parting ways with a loved one and starting over. Among them are songs like “Home Is Where The Heartbreak Is” and their current top 30 single “What Could’ve Been”. “I’m Never Getting Over You”, a fan favorite off Gypsy Heart written by Callait, Reeves, and the legendary Liz Rose. The once poppy song is now a heartbreaking ballad about a love that needs to end, even though both parties still love each other. Another standout is “When To Say Goodbye”, which echoes the previous songs. It’s about two people parting ways because they know they loved as much as they could, and “real love knows when to say goodbye.”

“This Time” and “Tides” are the stunning reflections of life. “This Time” has magical, swirling harmonies that are reminiscent of The Beach Boys and Fleetwood Mac. “Tides”, the closer, has dreamy, oceanside guitar and vocals, and it exudes happiness and serenity. There is something nostalgic about it that makes it sound like it’s looking back at the other 12 songs like memories in the past.

Gone West has captured literal lightning in a bottle on Canyons; each song tells a melodic and lyrical story, and it feels like a timeless tale that can be told over and over again. There’s no doubt that it will. It’s effortless, thought-provoking, yet simple. It’s hard to make the perfect album, but Gone West comes pretty close to doing so. Country albums like this are rare, and it will be exciting to see what comes next for the group.

To keep up with Gone West, you can find them on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

Canyons 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:

When To Say Goodbye
Gone West
Slow Down
Tides
This Time

Gone West Canyons Tracklist:

Gone West
Slow Down
What Could’ve Been
When To Say Goodbye
Knew You
Confetti
I’m Never Getting Over You
Gamblin’ Town
Talkin’ Bout You
R&R
Home Is Where The Heartbreak Is
This Time
Tides

 

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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.

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Thank You for supporting Country Music in NYC & Beyond!

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NYCS First Impression: Tyler Farr ‘Only Truck In This Town’

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Tyler Farr EP

Tyler Farr hit the ground running amidst the mud and the backroads since the five years since his last album release Suffer In Peace. Known for hits “A Guy Walks Into A Bar” and “Whiskey In My Water,” Farr has released his long-awaited EP Only Truck In Town this past Friday.

The title-track “Only Truck In Town” is heavily guitar-stricken, highlighting Farr’s raspy vocals in this backroads love song. This past Saturday, June 6th, the official music video for the track premiered on CMT’s Hot 20 Countdown.

“Soundtrack to a Small Town Sundown” takes on an oppositional vibe from the kickoff track with picked fretwork and a mid-tempo beat. It discusses the impact of music, the powerful connotation it can, or cannot hold. Every moment, every story, every town owns a curated soundtrack. One song can take you back anywhere. He sings: “Should’ve heard it in a parking lot dark // Like a match lighting backseat sparks // I knew I had her when the Silverado speakers started singing what I couldn’t // What I should’ve, yeah // Should’ve heard the first time I kissed her // Just don’t sound the same now // That light, it was perfect, it was like a soundtrack to a small town sundown.”

“I Wish Dogs Could Live Forever” catches your attention immediately because who doesn’t wish their pet could live with them forever. It’s a confessional ballad that expresses all the memories that the protagonist and their dog would do together while the chorus lists all heartbreaking things that he wishes wouldn’t happen. “Heaven In Dirt” closes out the EP with its immense contemporary country influences.

“You got me flying on a cloud right now // The way you look in that rearview sure makin’ me want to // Pull it over, maybe slow it on down // Let your wild go crazy, slide on over here baby // Take our time, let the night get to work // Girl, you’re makin’ these backroads feel like heaven on dirt”

The singer shared his excitement on Instagram on the EP’s release date noting, “After 5 years, I’m proud to say my new EP is out! My buddy @jasonaldean produced it and I’m excited for y’all to give it a listen. You’ve really been patient and I can’t thank you enough for the support all these years. Check out #OnlyTruckInTown at the link in my bio.”

Aldean also expressed his excitement writing, “The EP is out today just to give you a taste of what is coming your way. Crank it!”

Nearing the end of the COVID-19 stay-at-home orders, this disease has really hit home for Farr. His wife is a critical care nurse who worked in the COVID unit in Franklin, Tennessee. He’s been an avid advocate for frontline workers and essential workers.

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

Only Truck In Town Tracklist

1. Only Truck In Town — Ben Hayslip, Deric Ruttan, Josh Thompson

2. Soundtrack To A Small Town Sundown — Jonathan Singleton, Jon Nite

3. I Wish Dogs Could Live Forever — Neil Thrasher, Kelley Lovelace

4. Heaven On Dirt — Jeremy Bussey, Taylor Phillips, Jordan Rager, Michael Tyler

Only Truck In Town 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.

—————

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!

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

NYCS First Impression: Chris Bandi Self Titled EP

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Chris Bandi EP

We knew long before his record deal that it was just a matter of time before singer-songwriter Chris Bandi made it in the country music scene. The NYCountry Swag 2020 Artist to Watch made his major-label debut with his hit, “Man Enough Now,” and now is releasing his self-titled debut EP, filled with seven impressive tunes.

“I feel like I started making this EP 7 years ago when I first moved to Nashville,” Bandi shared on his social media, even acknowledging his early days. “From every open mic night, to writer’s room, to show throughout the years, I’m so proud of this EP and the hard work that everyone involved has put in. It’s been a long time coming and I can’t wait for you’ll to hear it.”

Beginning with “Dirt On Me,” the singer shows off his songwriting flair with a title that appears to be one thing, but is another. The guitar-heavy tune is an honest account of mistakes made, experiences had, and people that have come and gone that make up Bandi’s unique story. He sings “I got pages of me that are hard looking back on / regret written into my skin like a tattoo,” admitting later, that you don’t have to look far, if you want some dirt on him.

The next song is an ode to music. “Leave It To A Song” is as relatable as can be. Bandi sings about how music is always there for you, and ironically, this song can now be added to that list of songs. “When you need a real good / feel good / throwback feeling that you ain’t felt in so long / leave it to a love song to take you back in time / leave it to a song to get you feeling right”

In the same vein, “Free” talks about how the best things in life are free. The old cliche rings true through gritty lyrics and a fresh and exciting arrangement. The song has a gospel feel, during the hook, and a Sam Hunt vibe in the verse, where Bandi talks some of the lyrics. His versatility shines through on this track, and in the feel-good, flirty, adventure-seeking song “What If We Don’t.”

On the contrary, Bandi’s “Would Have Loved Her” is touching in a completely different way. The song is a heartfelt and heartbreaking piano tune, where the singer croons about meeting a girl that he knows his late father would have loved. In one of his live performances on Instagram, Bandi called this song one of his favorites that he’s ever written, and we agree.

“They Make Whiskey” is the other slower tune off the record. The break-up slow jam is a back and forth about all the reasons things were made. Of course, whiskey was made to get over an ex. “And they make little bars on the edge of town / for getting lost / for getting found / and hanging around / for more than a round or two”

If there was one word to describe Bandi’s new project, it would be honest. Each and every song off the record is an honest, personal, and fresh anecdote into the singer-songwriter’s life and journey. Know for his debut single, “Man Enough Now,” Bandi utilizes that platform to express different parts of his life throughout the new project. The single sits as the closer of the record, and no matter how many times we hear it, it remains as one of our favorites.

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

 

NYCS Picks:

  1. “Would Have Loved Her”
  2. “Man Enough Now”

 

Chris Bandi EP Tracklist:

  1. “Dirt On Me”
  2. “Leave It To A Song”
  3. “Would Have Loved Her”
  4. “Free”
  5. “They Make Whiskey”
  6. “What If We Don’t”
  7. “Man Enough Now”

 Chris Bandi 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.

 

—————

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!

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

NYCS First Impression: Diplo Presents Thomas Wesley ‘Snake Oil’

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Diplo Thomas Wesley Snake Oil

The year is 2015. You are at the club with your friends when you hear Justin Bieber’s synthesized voice sing “I need you, I need you, I need you the most” over the speakers and everyone in the crowd screams in excitement. The producer behind the Grammy Award-winning song, “Where Are Ü Now” is Thomas Wesley, better known as American DJ, Diplo. If you were a betting man/woman, you would have never guessed Diplo would drop a country-inspired album, but here in 2020, we don’t know what to expect anymore. Diplo Presents Thomas Wesley, Chapter 1: Snake Oil released today (May 29).

Although raised in Miami, Florida, Diplo was born in Tupelo, Mississippi – the same town in which Elvis Presley was born, so country music was always in his blood. He first dipped his feet in the industry when he released his remix to the popular Lil Nas X and Billy Ray Cyrus hit, “Old Town Road,” but received even more attention with his collaboration with country star, Morgan Wallen on “Heartless.” The song is being played on both mainstream pop and country radio and was recently certified platinum; it is becoming a staple in Wallen’s live set as well. A remix to the song with Julia Michaels was released earlier this year and all three songs appear on the new album. Michaels, who has been working with a lot of country artists as of late, also appears on the eighth song on the record, “Real Life Stuff” with Clever. Over an acoustic guitar and thumping bass, Michaels sings about wanting a real relationship with her significant other.

Although we would classify this as an EDM album, there are some real aspects of country on it. The Intro sets the mood and puts the listener inside an old western saloon. Orville Peck, the featured artist on the track, talks over an acoustic guitar, saying he wishes there was more trouble in this town. In “So Long,” Cam sings about a troubled man who acts independent but is really looking for love. Diplo adds produced-sounding string instruments to the chorus, including a fiddle, that is the perfect representation of this new sub-genre he has created.

“I know you’re fine doing life on your own / that doesn’t mean you should spend it alone / ‘Cause boy, you’ve been flying low for so long / but I think it’s time to give your heart / your heart what it wants”

Diplo gives us a brand new version of the classic square dance in “Do si do” and it’s no surprise he chose “The Git Up” singer, Blanco Brown, to feature on this track. Brown gives the dance’s instructions in a whisper and harmonica solos serve as the bass drops in the song. “Heartbreak,” featuring Ben Burgess, is probably the most country-sounding song on the album. Burgess paints the fictional picture of a whole bar strip closed by eight o’clock because no one needs alcohol to drown the pain and every song playing on the jukebox is a party song. To the average person, this isn’t an ideal situation. However, Burgess is content with his not-so-perfect life because “heartbreak makes the world go ‘round.” Instead of being upset about his break-up, he is going to raise his glass to the fact that there are better days ahead.

Diplo Snake Oil

Photo Credit: Mason Poole

Paying tribute to your roots is a classic theme in country music and Diplo covers it on this album with “Hometown.” Zac Brown and Danielle Bradberry play the role of a couple who would like to get to know each other better. They decide to visit their respected hometowns together so they can learn more about each other’s pasts and make sense of why they are the way they are now.

“We’ll pump gas before we pay for it / on some backroad, ain’t got no name for it / Headlight shining ‘til forever /Promise you gon’ know me better”

Other more pop-inspired songs we love are “Lonely” with the Jonas Brothers, “On Mine” with Billy Ray Cyrus’ daughter Noah Cyrus, and “Dance With Me” with Young Thug and country star, Thomas Rhett. “Dance With Me” has some funk vibes to it, which are familiar to Rhett, as songs such as “South Side,” “I Feel Good,” “Country Gold” and “Don’t Threaten Me With A Good Time” are all funk-infused.

This album is a great representation of Diplo’s roots, showcasing his creativity, and how versatile these modern country singers are with their cross-genre collaborations. As we are beginning to see many artists blend the genre lines, we believe it will introduce fans of all music to the country genre and give them a taste of what makes our industry so special! Although we are unsure if any of these will be embraced by country radio as positively as “Heartless” was, we feel these songs will fit perfectly into the fun vibes that lower Broadway brings to Nashville and country music fans.

NYCS Picks

  1. Hometown
  2. Heartbreak
  3. Dance With Me

Keep up with Diplo by following him on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook

Diplo Presents Thomas Wesley, Chapter 1: Snake Oil 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.

 

—————

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!

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

NYCS First Impression: Kip Moore ‘Wild World’

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Kip Moore Wild World

“She said, ‘Ooh baby, it’s a wild world” are the first lyrics in the chorus of the title track of Kip Moore’s fourth studio album available today (5/29). While that sentiment couldn’t ring truer during a global pandemic, Moore has forged ahead with the release of his highly anticipated project, giving fans just what the world might need right now, a little bit of musical medicine.

Opening with a song that he first played for attendees of CRS (Country Radio Seminar) back in February in Nashville at the Ryman Auditorium, “Janie Blu”, the story of a lost girl from his past that he is clinging to.  Moore has a way of filling the entire space in a song with a smattering of instruments while his lyrics are insightful and quietly express the story. The project was recorded live with a full band to capture the full emotion of each of songs.

Throughout the project, Moore’s vocals sound better than they’ve ever been, intentional yet breezy. He sings each word with conviction, something that fans have gravitated towards since his debut album and sing back to him with the same confidence during his live shows.

One of the many highlights on Wild World comes at the very end of “Fire and Flame” where after several cathedral-like chords,  Moore echos the chorus one final time as if speaking a confessional. “Someday I might find my way to heaven and Lord I hope there’s still room on that train / if you’re looking for me tonight, I’ll be out here burning bright, somewhere between the fire and flame”. The reflective track acts as a mirror showing the internal struggle you face as you grow older, trading in your vices for better practices.

“Music is the one thing where I really try to unveil where I’m at mentally, where my soul is,” the MCA Nashville recording artist explains in a press release. “As you get older, you start thinking about bigger concepts and where you fit in the grand scheme of this whole thing, and I’ve always lived my life simple. But the more I’ve lived, the more I understand that all this stuff we crave and seek, I see how much of life is smoke and mirrors. When I strip it down to the bare essentials, that’s when I’m the most happy.”

Although songs are written, recorded, and produced sometimes years before they become available for fans to hear, the title track seems as if Moore and songwriter Josh Miller could predict the crazy world they would be releasing this treasure into. “Wild World” reads like a list of advice a parent would give to their sons or daughters all the while, encouraging childlike wonder and to ultimately give up control. “Mama said, “Wild man, won’t you listen?” / Every second is God given / So forgive yourself, you’re just a man / And he’s too big for us to understand” he sings.

Moore’s version of a simple love song, “More Than Enough” highlights an effortless declaration that no matter what challenges may arise, a strong relationship can face anything. “I say the grass is pretty green right here, and this glass is past full, baby, cheers / to you, to me, to life and dreams, to all the little simple things / like this little piece of land that we’re on right now,” he croons in the second verse. “If it gets any better, hell, I don’t know how”.

“South” has a distinct sound, instantly catching your ear as Moore reminiscences of a summer romance over a bright cross-picking guitar while “Crazy For You Tonight” is sonically simple and sensual. The album closes with “Payin’ Hard”, for anyone who is following an unconventional dream. An acoustic masterpiece Moore outlines a life of sacrifices to play music, something that is specific to him and so many artists starving and yearning for the spotlight. “At the expense of my heart Lord, I’ve cashed in my soul / Chose this old guitar before the only love I’ve known / I gotta live with that, lose sleep with that when I close my eyes I’ll die with that yeah / My life’s a credit card, play now, pay later and I’m paying hard”.

Cowriting all but one song on Wild World, Moore bares his soul, laying out personal struggles and triumphs and managing to be sonically refreshing and nostalgic throughout.  One of his most stunning works to date, this project continues his legacy in the country music world.

NYCS Picks:

  1. “Payin’ Hard”
  2. “More Than Enough”
  3. “South”

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

Wild World 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.

Kip Moore, Wild World Track List:
1. “Janie Blu” (Dan Couch, Kip Moore)
2. “Southpaw” (Westin Davis, Kip Moore)
3. “Fire and Flame” (Cary Barlowe, Brett James, Kip Moore, Will Weatherly)
4. “Wild World” (Josh Miller, Kip Moore)
5. “Red White Blue Jean American Dream” (Jimi Bell, Barton Davies, Luke Dick, Philip Lammonds)
6. “She’s Mine” (Dan Couch, Kip Moore, Scott Stepakoff)
7. “Hey Old Lover” (Dan Couch, Kip Moore)
8. “Grow on You” (Blair Daly, Westin Davis, Kip Moore)
9. “More Than Enough” (David Garcia, Josh Miller, Kip Moore)
10. “Sweet Virginia” (Kip Moore, Manny Medina, Erich Wigdahl)
11. “South” (Adam Browder, Dan Couch, Manny Medina, Kip Moore, Dave Nassie, Erich Wigdahl)
12. “Crazy for You Tonight” (Blair Daly, Westin Davis, Kip Moore)
13. “Payin’ Hard” (Blair Daly, Westin Davis, Kip Moore)

 

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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!

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

NYCS First Impression: BRELAND Self-Titled EP

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Breland EP

Late in 2018, Lil Nas X’s now Grammy-award winning song “Old Town Road” blew up on TikTok, giving us an introduction to what ‘country trap’ is. A year and a half later, a new artist in the same genre, BRELAND, breaks into the scene with his song, “My Truck.” Soon thereafter, the 24-year-old Atlanta-based rapper dropped his debut extended play today (May 22) under a major record label.

Born in Burlington, New Jersey, Daniel Breland grew up listening to all types of music from The Beatles, to Prince, to Rascal Flatts. While attending Georgetown University, BRELAND knocked on every possible music-industry door and eventually broke through as a songwriter, landing several high-profile cuts with rappers such as Elhae and YK Osiris. As much as he enjoyed writing for other artists, his dream was to put out his own music. Like “Old Town Road,” “My Truck” went viral on TikTok and due to its popularity, fans urged him to drop the track on Spotify. It found tremendous success, including hitting #1 on Spotify’s Global Viral 50 and US Viral 50 charts. On April 24th, country mega-star, Sam Hunt joined the “My Truck” remix, and the song debuted on the Billboard Hot Country Charts at #46.

“My Truck” is a fun and simple song, in which BRELAND and Hunt just describe how much their truck means to them. However, this EP allows him to go deeper and tell us more about his personal life. “Wifi” discusses a complex relationship, while “Beautiful Lies” has all the vibes of a Post Malone track. In this song, he sings about his upbringing and all the grinding he had to go through to make it to where he is today. “I’ve been going in, going hard for the longest. Worked a couple jobs, did it all for my mama. People wanna talk but they can’t walk a mile in my shoes,” he sings in the chorus. “They ain’t know that hate is only love in disguise. So I had to thank you for the beautiful lies.”

Our favorite track, “In the Woulds” features Chase Rice and Lauren Alaina. Although it has a lot of hip-hop influence, it also contains multiple elements of country music, with an acoustic guitar serving as the lead instrument in the chorus, backed by a banjo and a strong bass beat. ‘Woulds’ is purposely misspelled as the singer says he is “lost in the woulds” with this girl, meaning he would do anything to be with her. BRELAND sings the chorus and Rice and Alaina take the first and second verses, respectively.

“Horseride” and “Hot Sauce” are two more fun, upbeat songs to go along with “My Truck” that lean a little more into a hip-hop sound. In the latter, BRELAND says his girl is like hot sauce, as everything is better with her.

If you are one who likes to categorize music by genre, good luck with this one. BRELAND took a sound that we have only heard in one song before and created an entire EP out of it, giving us a better understanding of the genre and sound. Although we doubt this will become the new ‘norm’ in country music, there is definitely a place for it. All these cross-genre collaborations are helping country music become more mainstream in regions where they have not been popular in the past, like here in the urban, northeast. For example, Morgan Wallen credits “Heartless”, his record with American DJ, Diplo as one of the causes of his fast-growing substantial fame. Diplo fans hear the song, then go check out Wallen as a result, and vice versa. In this case, after hearing “My Truck,” a fan of rap might go check out Sam Hunt, then venture off into other pop-country acts such as Thomas Rhett, which could lead to him/her listening to Jon Pardi, and soon enough, he/she could be adding George Strait and Waylon Jennings to their playlist.

Genre-defining aside, BRELAND showcased his true creativity with his fun and lively lyrics and sounds. If country trap is going to take off, Lil Nas X will be known as the one started it, but BRELAND will be credited as the one who truly moved it forward.

NYCS Picks:

  1. In the Woulds
  2. Beautiful Lie
  3. My Truck [Remix]

Keep up with BRELAND by following him on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

BRELAND’s self-titled 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.

—————

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!

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

NYCS First Impression: High Valley ‘Grew Up On That’ EP

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High Valley Grew Up On That

The Canadian brothers behind the mega-hits “Make You Mine” and “She’s With Me” have long been one of country music’s most underappreciated duos. Rather than pander to contemporary trends, High Valley, composed of Brad and Curtis Rempel, have always strayed a bit from the mainstream, staying true to their harmonic, blue-grass tinged roots. Today, they released the Grew Up On That EP, a follow up to 2016’s Dear Life, that shows them continuing to do exactly that.

The six-track collection opens with the title track celebrating the ways the duo was raised and grew up. “We have spent a lot of time in the past couple of years explaining what we grew up without, having spent our childhoods living in a pretty remote area,” Brad said in a statement. “This time around we wanted to let people know more of our story and exactly what we did have – what made us who we are – and what we grew up on.”

That theme continues throughout the tracks of the EP, as “Your Mama” takes us through an ode of appreciation to the pair’s wives, while “River’s Still Running” continues to look at life through the lens of small town glasses. On “River,” the pair muse how the song accidentally applies to the current circumstances of the world. “When we wrote this song, we had no idea about the predicament we’d be in right now,” said Brad in a statement. “But it’s pretty true that if you can look outside and see the sun still shining, see the river still running… then you know it’s going to be ok. We just have to focus on little pieces of positivity every single day.”

While the entire EP is a solid offering of new music, “Northern Star” is a certain standout, perfect for first dances and proclamations of new love. Think the likes of Russell Dickerson’s “Yours” or Dan + Shay’s “From the Ground Up” here. “I’ve always prayed for a porch light/To keep me from losin’ my way in the dark,” They sing. “I finally found it in your eyes/ My northern star.”

One of the best things about High Valley is that they have always managed to stay true to their roots, sound, and upbringing, and nowhere is that more apparent than on the Grew Up On That EP. The collection combines their signature harmonies and bluegrass background with songs that still manage to maintain modernity and mainstream appeal.

Grew Up On That EP Track Listing:
1. Grew Up On That (Brad Rempel, Ben Stennis, Jaron Boyer)
2. Your Mama (Ben West, Tyler Hubbard, Josh Miller, Troy Verges)
3. River’s Still Running (Brad Rempel, Randy Montana, Corey Crowder)
4. Northern Star (Brad Rempel, Matt Rogers, Ben Stennis)
5. One Day You’ll Get It (Brad Rempel, Derrick Southerland, Ben West)
6. Show Me The Way (feat. Jillian Edwards) (Brad Rempel, Daniel Tashian, Tenille Nadkrynechny)

To keep up with High Valley, visit their official website or follow him on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.

Grew Up On That – 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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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,
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NYCS First Impression: Craig Morgan ‘God, Family, Country’

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Craig Morgan God Family Country

Craig Morgan is no stranger to country music. In fact, the 55-year old Tennessee native had his Grand Ole Opry debut back in 2000, which was the same year that his debut self-titled album was released. After eight albums, one of which being a collection of hits, God, Family, Country is here to reintroduce the artist in a way that could not have been anticipated for the Morgan family.

In 2016, almost directly after his last album A Whole Lot More to Me, Morgan’s son, Jerry, lost his life during a boating accident. Artists and devoted listeners of country music were devastated to hear about the news, feeling a sliver of the pain and sorrow that the family was suddenly in the face of during such misfortune. A silent gloom fell upon the genre and was only lifted by the transformative “The Father, My Son, and the Holy Ghost”.

The single was the first we’ve heard of Morgan since the loss of his 19-year old son, with the exception of “4 x Life” featuring Maggie Rose. Still, this is the comeback that fans were waiting for. Written and produced by the high-esteemed musician and veteran, “The Father, My Son and the Holy Ghost” is one of the most vulnerable and honest productions in a landslide of emotional tracks in country music. One cannot miss the grief evident in the lyrics that are amplified by the heavy ache in Morgan’s tone; still, a sense of hope remains.

“In the mornings I wake up, give her a kiss, head to the kitchen / Pour a cup of wake-me-up and try to rouse up some ambition / Go outside, sit by myself but I ain’t alone / I’ve got the Father, my son, and the Holy Ghost”

God, Family Country breathes as something so much more than a ninth studio album: it’s a way of moving forward from the headlines and conversation regarding Jerry and the emotional healing involved by reflecting heavily on past experiences. “This album is based on everything that’s happened in my life and my career,” Craig said in a press release. “I feel like I have some of the most quality songs I’ve ever recorded, and there is a new energy here. After all I’ve been through, I’m at one of the most inspired places I’ve ever been.”

There are five new songs as well as remastered versions of previous tracks Morgan recorded through Broken Bow Records. Gavin DeGraw’s “Soldier” is included and taken through a different scope with the distinguished country artist’s perspective of former EMT and service member experience.

“Whiskey” lands as the third mastered production on the project, yet the first to be brand new. The electric guitar arrangement works alongside soothing harmonica subtleties to establish a true, powerhouse country song: dealing with a heartache washed down with whiskey. If there’s one thing this genre is known for it’s the breakup songs, and of course, drinking songs. Jon Pardi combines the two in “Heartache Medication”, Cole Swindell does it with “Ain’t Worth the Whiskey” and the 2013 “Drunk Last Night” from Eli Young Band takes on the same concept. There’s a wide array of music devoted to this type of story, and it doesn’t dilute the new releases that join them. Though, this new one from Morgan sets the bar for the next wave.

“It runs like a river through my veins / kills my liver, wrecks my brain, makes me numb but I still feel the pain / So I pour and pour, then pour some more ‘til me and the bottle hit the floor / Another shot in the dark won’t stop this heartache / Lord, I hate the taste of whiskey, but I drink it anyway”

“Sippin’ on the Simple Life” and “Going Out Like This” were released within the last few weeks to act as teasers for this album. They show both dimensions of the entertainer, being that each piece is complete in itself and tug at the heartstrings for different reasons. The first is a feel-good summer song that has a Kenny Chesney feel while resembling Scotty McCreery’s “Feelin’ It” or Jake Owen’s “Barefoot Blue Jean Night”. The latter tries to hold onto a relationship that may have passed its expiration date. It’s a heartfelt ballad that scrambles to fall back in love, similar to the desperation in Darius Rucker’s 2010 “I Got Nothing”.

Morgan’s project is not only for fans of the artist over the years but allows room to welcome new ones into the fold. If you love traditional country sounds with heartfelt lyrics, you will revel in God, Family, Country.

NYCS Picks:

  1. “The Father, My Son, and the Holy Ghost”
  2. “Whiskey”
  3. “Going Out Like This”

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

God, Family, Country is now available everywhere you buy or stream music. Take a listen below and check out more recently released music 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. 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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NYCS First Impression: Jordan Davis Self-Titled EP

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Jordan Davis

Jordan Davis has been one of the NYCountry Swag team’s favorite artists since he burst on to the scene with his hit song “Singles You Up.” Davis’ Louisiana swagger combined with his knack for intricate songwriting has created a unique musical sound that we just cannot get enough of. A little over two years since the release of his debut record Home State, Davis just premiered a self-titled EP to hold fans over until album number two.

Although only six songs in total, the new project is exactly what we needed from the singer-songwriter. Each song shows a part of his personality, a piece of his story, and of course, delivers with that signature Davis sound. Three of the songs off the record have been previously released over the last few months to keep fans hungry for new music.

Opening up with the newest release “Almost Maybes,” Davis has teased this song for a while on social media and of course during his live streams. The song is a smart take on a love song, as the singer shares about all the mistakes, the crossroads, the heartbreaks, and everything in between that he had to experience before finding his better half.

The record continues with a gem of a song called “Church In A Chevy.” The introspective track is about needing time to reflect and connect with God or the universe or whatever you believe in. For Davis it is talking to God for a moment in his truck. “Amazing grace came flooding through the windshield / Felt some broken parts of me start to heal,” Davis sings in the most touching and endearing way. It is such a powerful sentiment.

Davis’ smartly placed two of the most fun songs in the middle of his project. “Ruin My Weekend” has the “Singles You Up” and “Take It From Me” vibes that Davis fans have one to love, while “A Little Lime” is the best way to sing a song about approaching someone you noticed at a bar. We cannot get enough of Davis’ romantic, yet sensual lyrics.

“A little lime and a lotta tequila / Still buzzing off your nice to meet ya / Honestly I like to see how this thing plays out / Kinda wanna know all about you”

Of course, arguably Davis’ most personal song to date, “Detours” is our favorite. Co-written by the singer with his brother Jacob Davis and Dave Turnbull, Davis takes fans through the ups and downs in his life’s journey. He sings about his time as a little bit of a rebel in the first verse, but in the second verse, he admits that finding his wife has made him a better person. Davis shares tidbits about how he met his wife (in a hotel) through that verse.

“Sittin’ with a group of friends and sippin’ on a glass of red / And I don’t remember what I said but she wrote her number down / All I ever wanted but never knew I needed / She’s the dotted lines and every sign that led me straight to Jesus / Was a voice that made me hit the brakes, slow it down, have some faith” 

The record ends with Davis’ previously released duet with pop vocalist and songwriter, Julia Michaels “Cool Anymore.” The combination of the vocals on the new song is unexpected, but boy does it work! Co-written by Davis and Michaels with a team of superstar songwriters, Nicolle Galyon, Ross Copperman, and Emily Weisband, the song is a real-life, everyday love affair. Expressed through the eyes of someone who loves you, Davis and Michaels encourage listeners to be themselves and to let down their guard. The song aims to remind listeners that they can be their silly, normal self at home and with the ones they love, and to not like their work image or persona to take over.

Overall, this EP is the perfect project for Davis to release during these times. It reminds fans of his one of a kind talent, and honestly, makes us super excited for his sophomore record. We cannot wait for live shows to come back, to see Davis perform these songs, and to see how they resonate with the music community.

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

 

NYCS Picks:

  1. “Detours”
  2. “A Little Lime”
  3. “Church In A Chevy”

Jordan Davis EP Tracklist:

  1. “Almost Maybes”
  2. “Church In A Chevy”
  3. “Ruin My Weekend”
  4. “A Little Lime”
  5. “Detours”
  6. “Cool Anymore” featuring Julia Michaels

Jordan Davis 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.

 

—————

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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NYCS First Impression: Randy Rogers & Wade Bowen ‘HOLD MY BEER, VOL 2.’

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Hold My Beer Wade Bowen Randy Rogers

Fans of Texas country megastars, Randy Rogers and Wade Bowen are in for a real treat this Friday morning (5/8). The twosome released their first record in five years, a fun and exciting new project that picks up where they left off. HOLD MY BEER, VOL 2. is a purposeful masterpiece that the two meticulously wrote and ultimately recorded songs from the heart.

During our Swag Spotlight with the singers, we learned that Bowen and Rogers are long-time friends for almost 20 years. That notion is clearly embodied throughout the twelve cohesive songs off the new record. Each track is laced with vocals by the duo, but even more so, the songs tell the story of their friendship, their mutual love for traditional country music, and their respect and admiration for the genre as a whole.

“AM/FM” kicks off the album with a bang. The groovy and comedic song features banjos, horns, and drums while depicting a picture-perfect country scene. “Rodeo Clown” continues that vibe, as the duo laughs about losing a woman to a “rodeo clown.” The sarcastic tune is funny, witty, and as catchy as can be.

The duo shows off their comedic side again on the track simply titled “Her.” Rogers and Bowen lean on their knack for story-telling, as they talk to a guy, who they only like because of his girl. Ultimately, the man gets too drunk and loses his girl to the charm of the other men. “The other guy” taught him a lesson in this one.

“Yeah, the moral of the story is if you take your girl somewhere to quench your thirst / Don’t drink more than the other guy, and always, always, keep your eye on her.”

Rogers and Bowen trade lyrics on “Habits,” a true duet that depicts their vices. The two consider the pros and cons of drinking and smoking, but ultimately decide, that they are having too much fun to change. Amen to that fellas!

Two of the songs off the record pay homage to the country music family “Let Merle Be Merle,” has the duo advocating for simplicity and consistency in the ever-changing world, but of course the late, great, Merle Haggard is an integral part of the song. On the other hand, “Ode To Ben Dorcy (Lovey’s Song)” honors both Waylon Jennings and Ben Dorcy. Jennings’ unreleased vocals are sampled at the beginning of the song, and the country music great wrote the tune. Of course, the song honors Ben Dorcy, who was a longtime fixture in the country music industry for his work backstage. He is considered by many to be the ultimate ‘roadie.’

The record continues to flow with “Rhinestoned” sitting as the number 5 track. Arguably the best song off the record, the song is a love letter to country music. Written by Lori McKenna, Ryan Beaver, and Ashley Ray, the song reminds us all about the times country music has been there for us. This song is truly flawless lyrically, sonically, and vocally.

Another standout track is “This Ain’t My Town.” Rogers and Bowen joined forces with Jon Randall and Jim Beavers to create a song about their values and their experiences. The men sing about how cities are taking the place of rural and country landscapes. The soft acoustic guitar plays well with the venerable lyrics of the song. They firmly state “Pack my bags I ain’t lookin’ back / This ain’t my town.”

Just as it started, the records ends on a fun and exciting note with the title track, “Hold My Beer.” One of our favorites, the song is a honky-tonk good time and the perfect drinking tune. It celebrates unwavering friendship and loyalty.

Overall, Rogers and Bowen make the ultimate team. It is clear from this record that the two love working together, creating music that can only be described as fun and upbeat country music. Fans across the genre will like this one!

To keep up with Randy Rogers follow him on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.
To keep up with Wade Bowen follow him on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

NYCS Picks:

  1. “Rhinestoned”
  2. “Hold My Beer”
  3. “Habits”
  4. “This Ain’t My Town”

HOLD MY BEER, VOL 2. Tracklist:

  1. “AM/FM”
  2. “Rodeo Clown”
  3. “Habits”
  4. “Let Merle Be Merle”
  5. “Rhinestoned”
  6. “Ode To Ben Dorcy (Lovey’s Song)”
  7. “Mi Amigo”
  8. “This Ain’t My Town”
  9. “Warm Beer”
  10. “Speak to Me Jukebox”
  11. “Her”
  12. “Hold My Beer”

HOLD MY BEER, VOL 2. 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.

 

 

—————

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.

Saturday Night Live Combs

—————————-

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: