NYCS First Impression David Nail ‘Oh, Mother’ EP

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Oh, Mother David Nail

David Nail, American country music artist native to Kennett, Missouri, released his first solo project since his release Fighter in 2016. This new collection Oh, Mother, produced by Nail himself in collaboration with Jason Hall, clamors affairs of mental health and restitution with the people close to him. The country singer + songwriter has been known for his openness surrounding his mental health struggles whereas he vowed to honestly personify himself even more in the public spotlight via his releases.

The EP Oh, Mother commences with the title track and closes with a stripped-down, intimate piano version, and cites a hauntingly nostalgic conversation with his mother proclaiming that his mental health is not an outcome of her raising during his childhood. From a parental perspective, it’s easy to accept blame for your child’s struggles, but it isn’t your fault. He sings: “Hello mother / It’s good to hear your voice / Yeah I’m fine / Better than I’ve been / I don’t mean for you to worry / It’s nowhere I ain’t seen before / I just had to say / Ain’t no one else to blame / If I don’t make it out of this storm / Mother, ain’t nothing that you did / Nothing that you said / Just all I’ve ever known”

“Forgiveness,” the follow up-track, has already received recognition and appreciation from Spotify on their Country Coffeehouse and Take It Slow playlists. It rolls off the tip of the title track’s tongue in terms of a melancholic ambiance. This track depicts the removal of bitter feelings when choosing forgiveness, but it’s easier said than done.

“I wish I held the answers / To all the questions in your mind / Wish I could say it will get better / But I can’t look at you and lie / I know I’ve had my share of troubles / So who am I to give advice / But if you ain’t felt forgiveness / Seems like now’s the time”

Nail chose to feature Ryan Adams’ “La Cienega Just Smiled” as he famously releases his spin on well-known songs. “La Cienega Just Smiled” discusses the hurt of a one-sided trust. She doesn’t want to see him anymore so he knows he’s not going to be in her neighborhood again. He sings: “And I hold you close in the back of my mind / Raise my glass ’cause either way I’m dead / Neither of you really help me to sleep anymore / One breaks my body and the other breaks my soul / La Cienega just smiles, waves goodbye.”

The project concludes with a piano version of “Oh, Mother” and leaves you with a better glimpse inside Nail’s feelings making you grasp for more.

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

Oh, Mother 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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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 Dustin Lynch ‘Tullahoma’

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Dustin Lynch Tullahoma

Platinum-selling, singer-songwriter, Dustin Lynch released his fourth studio album, Tullahoma, today (Jan 17). Named after his hometown in Tennessee, the record contains eleven tracks, including the three off his Ridin’ Roads EP and his 2018 number one single “Good Girl.” Lynch co-wrote six of the songs, the most he has ever contributed to one of his albums. Old Dominion frontman, Matt Ramsey, Florida Georgia Line’s Brian Kelley, the late busbee, and many more talented songwriters also contributed to this record.

“Tullahoma is the town that made me the man I am,” Lynch writes in the album biography. “So, as a songwriter now, I can’t help but go back and jump in my boots as a kid or a teenager in high school and write from that frame of mind.”

Being that this project is a homage to his hometown, it’s ironic that he’d sing about burning it to the ground in the first track, “Momma’s House.” Released on December 6th, Lynch sings about how an ex-girlfriend ruined the town he grew up in and how he’d “burn this whole town down if it wasn’t for my momma’s house.” Throughout the song, he recalls memories and specific spots in the town that now haunt him because of this breakup. Already getting radio airplay, we can expect this to be Lynch’s next single.

In the next track, “Dirt Road,” he paints a more positive picture of his hometown and growing up. He starts out by comparing it to Nashville, as the buildings are taller, the lights are brighter and the town is always buzzing. He admits he doesn’t always fit into that kind of life. “Yeah I’m just out here chasing these stars / Sometimes I swear I’m living on Mars / but I grew up on a dirt road.”

Lauren Alaina is becoming the go-to female singer to feature on male country artists’ songs nowadays. Alaina, already recording songs with Kane Brown, Rascal Flatts, Chris Young, Jon Pardi, and HARDY, joins Lynch on this third track, “Thinking Bout You.” She plays the role of an ex-girlfriend (probably not the same one in “Mommas House”) that calls him up one day. Coincidently, he’s been thinking about her a lot lately.

“Ridin’ Roads,” Lynch’s current single, hit number one the first week of the New Year, making it his seventh chart-topper. Co-written with songwriting geniuses Ashley Gorley and Zach Crowell, the song had a slow and steady climb to the top, as it was originally released back in March of 2019. Lynch presents his cool, laid back attitude in this track as he takes a ride with his girl down a windy back road in the country.

“Old Country Song” begins with a hip-hop beat, but as it progresses, the traditional country sound comes into play with instruments like the banjo and fiddle. He shows off his knowledge of old-school country with references to legends, such as George Jones and Johnny Cash. This is definitely the most traditional-sounding track on the album. “Ima love you like George Jones loved to drink, like Johnny loved some June.”

Lynch has some fun with word-play in songs like “Country Star” and “Workin’ On You.” In “Country Stars,” Lynch leaves the bar with a girl to go stargazing. “I’ll get you falling like a country star” he sings, cleverly relating to both the stars is the sky and the way fans fall for artists. “Workin’ On You” has a more upbeat, rock-n-roll sound as the lyrics depict a day that was spent working in the field, and once that work is done, the singer spends time with his girl.

The record closes with three previously released songs in “Little Town Living,” “Red Dirt, Blue Eyes” and “Good Girl.” “Little Town Living” is reminiscent of Jason Aldean’s “Dirt Road Anthem” as Lynch raps the verses.

“There wasn’t an intention to write an album inspired by my hometown,” he says of Tullahoma, “but there was an idea to aim at the character of who that small town boy is, and to write an album that that guy would like, that he would want to play in his truck and try to impress his girl with. Every single song had to check all those boxes or we just tossed it out. It was a very small bull’s-eye, but it was fun.”

Lynch will hit the road to headline his Stay Country Tour with special guest Travis Denning starting in Detroit on January 30th. A portion of each sale will benefit the Cowboys and Angels Fund supporting various philanthropic causes, including an intentional focus on children’s charities. For tickets, head to his website.

NYCountry Swag Picks:
1. Momma’s House
2. Thinking ‘Bout You
3. Old Country Song

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

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

 

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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 Ronnie Dunn ‘Re-Dunn’

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Re-Dunn

When it comes to country music, there are singers and then there are SINGERS. Ronnie Dunn is the latter.

As the front-man of Brooks and Dunn, the golden-voiced vocalist has become known as one of country music’s best and most recognizable voices. With a handful of solo projects behind him, Dunn went back to the drawing board to release a cover album, Re-Dunn, out today (Jan. 10).

For Dunn, the album is a journey through his musical routes and inspirations, including artists like the Eagles, George Strait, Eric Clapton, the Hollies, and more. “This is a passion project for me,” he said in a press release. “If you put together a group of songs that define the soundtrack of my life, this is what it would look like.”

It goes without saying that Dunn shines on country music, as he was born to sing it. That’s evidenced here on his versions of the George Strait classics “Amarillo by Morning” and “The Cowboy Rides Away.” In fact, we’d be lying if we said I didn’t have these two on repeat.

Interestingly, the majority of the album features Dunn covering non-country classics. Highlights include his takes on Tom Petty’s “I Won’t Back Down,” Eric Clapton’s “Wonderful Tonight,” and “Peaceful Easy Feeling” by the Eagles. His version of “If You Don’t Know Me By Now” is another stunner.

If Dunn decides to release another album of covers in the future, we would love to see him stretch a bit more outside of the box, maybe covering artists like Justin Timberlake or Kelly Clarkson. However, it’s often said that a good singer can sing the phone book and make it enjoyable. Here, Ronnie Dunn is a great singer with a great collection of songs, making Re-Dunn an absolute joy to listen to. It may be a passion project for  Dunn, but it’s sure to make music fans just as happy as it makes him.

Re-Dunn Tracklist

“Amarillo by Morning”
“Long Cool Woman (In A Black Dress)”
“That’s How I Got to Memphis”
“It Never Rains In Southern California”
“How Long”
“Drinkin’ Thing”
“Together Again”
“Peaceful Easy Feeling”
“Against The Wind”
“If You Don’t Know Me By Now”
“I Won’t Back Down”
“Cowboy Rides Away”
“Showdown”
“Wonderful Tonight”
“Ashes By Now”
“That’s The Way Love Goes”
“I’m Not In Love”
“Brown Eyed Girl”
“You Don’t Know Me”
“Ridin’ My Thumb To Mexico”
“A Showman’s Life”
“Good Time Charlie’s Got The Blues”
“Aime”
“I Can’t Help It (If I’m Still In Love With You)”

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

NYCountry Swag Top 3:
1. Amarillo By Morning
2. I Won’t Back Down
3. Cowboy Rides Away

Re-Dunn 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 Tenille Arts ‘Love, Heartbreak & Everything In Between’

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Tenille Arts

The last few years have been very promising for newcomer Tenille Arts. She released her debut album, Rebel Child, which included the stunners “Cold Feet” and “Red Flag White”, performed on the television series The Bachelor, signed to a record label, and is now releasing her sophomore album, Love, Heartbreak, & Everything In Between. The Saskatchewan native digs deep on this project, and although it’s her second album, it’s like she’s re-introducing you to who Tenille Arts is. “I’m so excited about this album,” said Arts in a press release. “It’s everything I’ve been through this past year, so I decided to title it ‘Love, Heartbreak & Everything in Between.’ It’s four love songs, four breakup songs, and four songs about everything else in life. I got to collaborate with new songwriters and producers and I’m so proud of the creativity on this album.”

The album opens with current radio single “Somebody Like That”, an infectious country-pop song about what to strive for in a relationship, reminding listeners not to settle for anything less. It’s catchy in an inescapable way and based on how fans are responding to it, it’s a song to watch in 2020.

“Slow It Down” and “Wild Love” are next, and the first is a waltz-like ballad about letting love unfold naturally and linger. It’s melodically very impressive, especially during the chorus. “Wild Love” leans on the more retro side. The introduction immediately is reminiscent of Glen Campbell’s “Coming Home”, and vocally sounds like it could be sung by the Dixie Chicks. It’s a song that shows off her influences. If a weekend drive was a song, “Wild Love” is it.

The real standout on the album is “Nothing To See Here”, a gorgeous stripped-back song that sits in the middle of the record. Her voice aches with part pain, part frustration, and part resentment. There are plenty of songs about small-town loves, but this one feels different. It’s about the town, the parking lot, the old park… it’s about how run-down this drive-by town is. And yet she can’t escape these memories, despite there being nothing to see in her hometown. It’s an evocative message that many can relate to. “Got no reason to be here, cuz there’s nothing to see here,” she tells herself verse after verse, trying to coach herself through her heartbreak. It’s a stop-you-in-your-track type song. “I’ll never get that piece of my heart/myself/my life back that you got” she sings on the three choruses. This song has the potential to be a classic in her catalog for years to come.

There are two solo writes on the album: “Another Life” and “Right Guy Wrong Time”. “Another Life” is a piano ballad. It’s a heart-wrenching song that explores all of the could-have-beens in a relationship gone wrong. It showcases Arts’ vulnerable vocals. The latter, “Right Guy Wrong Time” feels like a companion to Rebel Child cut “Raindrops, Dirt Road”. It’s a reflective song about meeting the right person although the timing is wrong. He’s still hung up on his ex, and not quite ready to move on from the “girl at home”. The bridge of this song is strong, because the rhythm changes slightly, and she really utilizes her head voice in this track.

The story continues “Missing You” a perfect turning point about finally being over someone. The r&b/pop influence on the song works because it’s about going out and being the life of the party after experiencing change. “The only thing missing is me missing you”, she sings on the chorus. Arts’ has always had an ear for lyrics that have a bit of a twist. It feels like this song expands her repertoire a lot, as the production is a lot less traditional leaning. The album closes with the sing-along “Everybody Knows Everybody” which highlights small-town friendliness. The wordplay is excellent, and the chorus is full-circle and satisfying to the listener.

It’s been a long time coming, but it feels like it’s Tenille Arts’ time to shine, and few deserve it more. She’s never sounded more like herself, and that’s why country music fans are responding to it. If you listen to her sing, her voice is strong like a firecracker. Keep an eye out for Arts in the next year, because any day now she’s going to explode.

Love, Heartbreak, & Everything In Between- Tracklist 

1. Somebody Like That * – Tenille Arts, Alex Kline, Allison Margaret Cruz
2. Slow it Down *** – Tenille Arts, Josh Logan, Grant Vogelfanger
3. Wild Love **** – Tenille Arts, Derek George, Palmer Lee
4. Butterfly Effect * – Tenille Arts, Lizzy McAvoy, Adam Wheeler
5. I Hate This ** – Tenille Arts, Adam Wheeler
6. Nothing to See Here ** – Tenille Arts, Whitney Duncan
7. Another Life ** – Tenille Arts
8. Right Guy, Wrong Time ** – Tenille Arts
9. Call You Names * – Tenille Arts, James Slater
10. Missing You * – Tenille Arts, Alex Kline, Allison Margaret Cruz
11. Wouldn’t You Like to Know * – Tenille Arts, Alex Kline, Allison Margaret Cruz
12. Everybody Knows Everybody * – Tenille Arts, Alex Kline, Allison Margaret Cruz

NYCS Staff Picks:
Nothing to See Here
Somebody Like That
Missing You

 

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

‘Love, Heartbreak and Everything In Between’ 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 Collectionby 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 Brett Kissel ‘Now Or Never’

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Brett Kissel Now or Never

Just three days into the new year and country fans already have some new music to be excited about! Rising artist and Swag Session alum, Brett Kissel recently released his newest album Now or Never, which is comprised of eight unique cuts that showcase the singer’s talent in the best light.

The record begins with his latest single “Drink About Me.” Kissel explained a little bit about his inspiration for the track, as well as, sang the song for us, during our live interview back in October of this year. The song is the ideal introduction into the singer-songwriter’s artistry, and the play on words is the perfect lyrical touch to the heartbreaking breakup tune.

In the next track, Kissel relies on a rhythmic instrumental and a groovy beat to deliver “A Few Good Stories.” With a vibe similar to Thomas Rhett’s, Kissel shines on the upbeat track. The radio friendly jam has a simple message about having fun and living life to the fullest.

“I’m gonna soak up the sun / Keep the wind in my sails / Try to get to heaven while raising little hell / When it’s all said and done, I’ll know I lived it well / If I ain’t got nothing but a few good stories to tell”

In a similar vein, “Young Enough” reminds us to “love the life we live and live the life we love,” while we are young and can do whatever we want. Additionally, “She Drives Me Crazy” continues to mix catchy lyrics with an enticing backing track. Yet again, Kissel blends modern country with a smooth sound and relatable lyrics that any country fan can identify with.

Although all the songs off Kissel’s new project shine in their own right, “That’s Country Music” may one of the best. Listed as track number three, the song is an ode to what we all love, country music. The singer speaks from the heart in the honest and stripped-down track. Forgoing clichés, Kissel makes sure to name everything that he feels is part of country music, all while creating something that is at the heart of the genre, story-telling at it’s finest.

“It’s a never felt a heartbreak like this / That’s country music / That’s why we do it / It hits the heart and soul and just feels right / That’s country music / It pulls through it / It’s the ups and the down, the soundtrack of our lives / That’s country music.”

Continuing to showcase his undeniable talent, “Hummingbird” is as vulnerable as it gets. Eloquently named, the track explores the emotions associated with love and loss in the most poignant way. Referring to a lost love as a ‘hummingbird,’ Kissel laments singing, “some things are not meant to be,” and better yet, that sometimes it is a blessing to let someone go free.

The second to last song on the track “I’m Not Him I’m Not Her” features Kissel in a duet with female songstress, Christina Taylor. The two singers take turns singing verses, showcasing both the male and female perspectives as they try to make sense about how trust issues can impact a current relationship. Both the vocal delivery and the lyrical message are equally as impactful, vulnerable, and powerful. This is the song we never knew we always needed in country music!

“I’m tired of trying to find someone / smiling through the tears / when it’s all said and done / love cannot be trusted is the lesson that I learned / I’m not him / I’m not her.”

Finally, Kissel ends his creative record with a beautiful song called “Coffee With Her.” We learned from our Swag Session that the song blossomed from an interview that Johnny Cash gave with a publication about his version of paradise. Kissel took Cash’s incredibly insightful answer and created an equally as exquisite song. Although simple, the romantic lyrics are a standout and leave you wanting more.

As early fans and champions of Kissel, we are so excited to see how his music is received by county fans in the United States and hope that he achieves success here, as he already has had in Canada.

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

Now or Never 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 Walker Hayes ‘8Tracks Vol. 3 – ‘Black Sheep’

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Walker Hayes 8Tracks Black Sheep

Walker Hayes will always remain one of our favorite artists to work with because of his talent, but more importantly because of his unparallel devotion to his family, his craft, and to maintaining true to himself and to his fans. Keeping the tradition alive, Hayes released the third volume of his ‘8Tracks’ record entitled Black Sheep today.

The record features eight diverse tracks that all blur genre lines in the best way possible. Each song relies on rhythmic word phrasing and heartfelt song lyrics, ringing true to the singer-songwriter’s unique style. The opening song, the title track is one of those songs you cannot help but to bounce along to and to smile, while it plays. Hayes’ admits to being a bit of a misfit, reminiscing about his younger days, admitting in the hook “Now that I’m a dad, I feel bad for her daddy”

Slowing it down a bit, “Love Hate” is next song off the record. Hayes’ vocals shine on this electric song. The song is about all of those experiences in life that are a “love-hate thing” like trying to become a successful artist, going through a tough break-up, and wanting someone to love you. Ironically the song takes a turn, truly becoming about the well-crafted lyric “I just hate how much I want you to love me,” a sentiment that most people can relate to.

The next two songs present as diary entries. The first, “Dad’s Sailboat” is a quick-witted and emotional tune. Hayes’ depicts the story of mortality in such a way that is both eye-opening and relatable, as he sings about his father selling his sailboat because he is getting older and the emotional impact that has. The second, “Chapel” is Hayes’ song for his children. Being a dad is a profound title in the singer’s life, and it is refreshing to see an artist sing about it in a clever song. He talks about how a parent and a child might have different dreams, but that a parent’s role is to always to be supportive.

“Chapel, Little apple, fall as far from the tree / as you need to / My love can reach you / Chapel, little apple, fall as far from the tree / as you need to / My love can reach you”

“Goldest” and “Wish I Could Drink” are the next songs off the record. The former is the ultimate compliment to your love immersed in an upbeat tempo. Hayes shares that he would rather have love than anything else in the world, including a medal, award or a Rolex. The latter is a soulful expression of despair. Hayes admits to just wishing he could have some alcohol, during tough times; despite, not having a sip in over four years. This song is an honest recount of the daily struggles of recovery that many people go through, and it is encouraging that someone with Hayes’ platform is bringing awareness to such a vulnerable subject.

Hayes continues the vulnerability with “Acceptance Speech,” an ultimate anthem for self-acceptance. A female singer lends her voice on the chorus, which only adds to the powerful message. The entertainer admits to coping with criticisms and seeking out validation calling himself a “recovering-validation-aholic.” This song shows listeners that we can all exist with hopes, dreams, and insecurities, but we should always be our own cheerleaders.

“This goes out to myself / and every single tear that I felt / telling me that no one can tell me who to be / except for me”

Hayes ends the record with an acoustic version of his heartfelt single “Don’t Let Her.” The song is his ode to his relationship with his wife. It is one of the purest love songs out there right now, and although the lyrics are deeply personal, we are sure that fans resonate with this one.

Overall the central themes of honesty, vulnerability, and family are what will garner Hayes more and more fans. This latest project is just another notch in the singer-songwriter’s belt, showcasing his fearlessness and proving that he has the talent and work ethic to make it in the rough and tumble music industry.

To keep up with Hayes follow him on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook and make sure to visit his “Be A Craig” fund as well.

8Tracks Vol. 3- Black Sheep 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: Jason Aldean ‘9

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Jason Aldean 9

Jason Aldean, the legendary ACM Artist of the Decade has released his ninth studio album fittingly entitled 9; a sixteen-track work of art that blends his traditional country roots with modern rock. The multi-platinum entertainer teamed up with long-time producer Michael Knox and Nashville’s top songwriters Josh Thompson, Rhett Akins, Jordan Schmidt, Brad Warren, Brett Warren, and Ben Hayslip to create an album showcasing exceptional storytelling from nostalgic memories and heartbreak, to good time drinking anthems.

Aldean kicks off the album reflecting on a past relationship with “Tattoos and Tequila.” With a heavy guitar background, the story tells the tale of drowning in tequila to forget about the tattoo of an ex with the chorus, “When I’m missing her I take another shot, I know it ain’t the cure but right now it’s all I’ve got. She took most of me, and now all that I have left, are tattoos to remember, tequila to forget.”

“Blame It On You” is another heartache song realizing the other person is not to blame, rather it is about admitting one’s own fault. Aldean continues on with the breakup theme mixing loneliness with booze and a traditional sound in “Champagne Town,” and is more reflective of a shattered relationship in “Some Things You Don’t Forget” admitting “she’s a buzz that stills runs through my head.” Aldean changes tune and shows off his ability to blend his country-rock persona with a pop cross over sound in the romantic love ballad “Got What I Got.”

The ACM Entertainer Of The Year gives an ode to his red dirt upbringing with nostalgic anthemic tracks including the hit single “We Back,” “Dirt We Were Raised On,” and “Keeping It Small Town.” In addition, the mid-tempo song “Talk About Georgia” is a tribute to his home state and the love he left behind. He sings about taking pride in his country roots with “Camouflage Hat,” a small-town love story. The chorus reminisces about the girls falling in love with the good old boys in a camouflage hat singing, “Here they come, rolling down Main Street/ country song spinning on a CD /Small-town looking for a good time/ Raise a little hell and a drink at the county line.”

Of course, the Georgia native gave fans a few booze-filled tracks throughout the record including “Came Here To Drink” and “I Don’t Drink Anymore.” “I Don’t Drink Anymore” is a traditional country song with a clever play on words that we may never have realized, as Aldean sings, “So I don’t drink anymore/ Ever since she left/ I don’t drink anymore/ And I don’t drink any less.”

In the last fifteen years, Aldean has scored 23 number one hits – and fans can enjoy nearly two full albums worth of songs that are nothing short of exceptional country-rock entertainment. Aldean’s latest project 9 is another notch on his belt with successfully blending his unique sound and crossover appeal. This week Aldean will be on national TV making stops to promote 9 at Good Morning America and a special Thanksgiving night performance of his Top 15 hit single “We Back” on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon before returning to Las Vegas on December 6th-8th for his show Jason Aldean: Ride All Night Vegas at the Park MGM Park Theatre. Next year, the multi-platinum entertainer will be hitting the road with his 2020: WE BACK TOUR featuring supporting acts Morgan Wallen, Riley Green, and Dee Jay Silver. For more information go to www.JasonAldean.com.

NY Country Swag Picks:

“Champagne Town:

“Camouflage Hat”

“Talk About Georgia”

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

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

Jason Aldean’s 9 Track Listing:

“Tattoos and Tequila”
“Blame It On You”
“Champagne Town”
“Some Things You Don’t Forget”
“Got What I Got”
“Keeping It Small Town”
“Camouflage Hat”
“Came Here to Drink”
“We Back”
“Dirt We Were Raised On”
“I Don’t Drink Anymore”
“Cowboy Killer”
“One for the Road”
“Talk About Georgia”
“The Same Way”
“She Likes It”

Want a chance to win an autographed vinyl copy of the album?
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*All winners will be notified by Wednesday, December 18th via e-mail or DM. 

 

 

 

 

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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!

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NYCS First Impression: Lady Antebellum ‘Ocean’

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Ocean Lady Antebellum

When Lady Antebellum released “What If I Never Get Over You” as the first single off their then-untitled new album, it was clear that something had shifted within the group’s sound and dynamic. Gone were the horns and funky beats of recent releases. In the place of gimmicks and trend-chasing were the pure harmonies and deep lyrics that the group had initially become known for. While the trio may have lost their way a bit over the years, Ocean (released today, November 15), shows them righting their course.

Ocean marks the trio’s first release on Big Machine Label Group and represents a seismic sonic shift to the sound that made Charles Kelley, Hillary Scott, and Dave Haywood one of Nashville’s hottest acts. “There’s this theme of returning to the core of who we are — as writers, vocalists, and people — that came out in each of these songs,” Haywood said in a statement. “Our time in the studio with Dann (Huff) had an excitement that felt like we were making our first album all over again.”

While the overall sound of Ocean hearkens back to the heyday of Lady A., there’s also growth and maturity to the lyrics here. No longer are they three single kids, trying to make a name in Nashville. Today, they’re each married with kids of their own. They’ve struggled with real life issues, released solo projects, and have grown as people, all of which is evidenced on this album. Notably, “Crazy Love” tells the tale of a relationship that shouldn’t have survived, but has, thanks to crazy love. “You were reckless on that day you took my hand/ But you, you could see right through the boy and see a man/ And here I stand/ Thank God for you/ Thank God for us/ Thank God for crazy love.”

Likewise, “What I’m Leaving For” tells the tale of parents struggling with the travel required of their jobs. “Got my bags packed/ Got my ticket/ Got a heartache to go with it,” Scott sings here, while they hope their children understand the reasons why they’re always leaving. Lady A promises big things for their children on this bittersweet track, as they embrace their duality as performers and parents. “I wore out the demo for this song,” recalled Haywood in a recent press release. “I immediately related to it. It’s so hard stepping away from your family the way we do, and that song is such a great, beautiful way of articulating what we’re out here doing this for – our families, and those that we love us, too. This song is a beautiful picture of that push and pull of our journey.”

Lady A picks things up on the previously-released “Boots” and “You Can Do You,” the latter of which celebrates the ways people blow off steam in Nashville. On the stomping up-tempo, Kelley takes lead, proclaiming “It don’t matter where you come from/ Which side of the county line/ We’re all here/ Searching for a good time.”

Love and relationships are still a prominent theme on the album, taking different forms on the bittersweet “Pictures,” the inspiring “Let It Be Love,” and the lush “Be Patient with My Love.” There’s also a new take on “On A Night Like This,” originally recorded by singer-songwriter, Dave Barnes. Here, Lady Antebellum’s harmonies and plush arrangement wrap around you like a warm blanket, convincing you that on a night like this, you could most certainly fall in love.

One of the album’s most arresting tracks is “The Thing That Wrecks You,” featuring Little Big Town, and written by Daniel Tashian, Tenille Townes, and Kate York. If you want harmonies, they’re in abundance here, as LBT and Lady A create something ethereal and magical. If you’re wondering what heaven might sound like, we expect that it’s something like the chorus of “The Thing That Wrecks You,” as the new power group join vocal forces. This is basically the musical equivalent of the Avengers, and we’re here for as many sequels as they’d like to make.

The album concludes with its title track, “Ocean,” a lush and theatrical ballad that shows the group at its finest. Scott takes lead, Haywood plays piano and Kelley offers stirring background vocals. “It’s such a cinematic and theatrical melody with a message that became the cornerstone of this record for us,” Scott said in a press release. “Ocean is all of the things that we think and feel when we hear the word. This album is immersed in life stories about barely keeping your head above water all the way to those times that make you feel like everything is smooth sailing.”

For Lady Antebellum, Ocean reflects a much-needed return to its roots. The group’s reinvigoration is evident here, and much like the ocean itself, the album’s tracks come at you in waves. Some will hit you hard, some will just be fun, and some will absolutely sweep you away.

NYCountry Swag Picks:
1. The Thing That Wrecks You
2. You Can Do You
3. What I’m Leaving For

Lady Antebellum, Ocean Track List:

1. “What If I Never Get Over You” (Sam Ellis, Jon Green, Ryan Hurd, Laura Veltz)
2. “Pictures” (Dave Haywood, Charles Kelley, Hillary Scott, Sarah Buxton, Corey Crowder)
3. “Crazy Love” (Charles Kelley, Nathan Chapman)
4. “You Can Do You” (Dave Haywood, Charles Kelley, Corey Crowder, Jordan Schmidt)
5. “What I’m Leaving For” (Sam Ellis, Micah Premnath, Laura Veltz)
6. “Be Patient With My Love” (Charles Kelley, Dave Barnes, Ben West)
7. “Alright” (Dave Haywood, Charles Kelley, Hillary Scott, Busbee, Justin Ebach)
8. “Let It Be Love” (Hillary Scott, Jordan Reynolds, Amy Wadge)
9. “On a Night Like This” (Dave Barnes)
10. “Boots” (Charles Kelley, Ross Copperman)
11. “The Thing That Wrecks You” feat. Little Big Town (Daniel Tashian, Tenille Townes, Kate York)
12. “Mansion” (Chris DeStefano, Hillary Lindsey, Josh Miller)
13. “Ocean” (Tofer Brown, Sarah Buxton, Abe Stoklasa)

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

Ocean 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.

 

Want a chance to win an autographed copy of the album?
Fill out the form below to enter to win!
Then head to Instagram, for additional chances to win
*All winners will be notified by Monday, December 10th via e-mail or DM. 

* THIS CONTEST HAS ENDED *
PLEASE FOLLOW @NYCOUNTRYSWAG ON INSTAGRAM FOR FUTURE OPPORTUNITIES

 

 

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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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NYCS First Impression Wade Bowen ‘Twelve Twenty-Five

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Wade Bowen

Texas native singer + songwriter Wade Bowen released his Christmas album, Twelve Twenty-Five produced by Sean McConnell, just in time to start celebrating the holiday season. The album takes on classic holiday classics as well as modern hits. This chases a deluge of other projects such as Inconsistent Chaos, a documentary about mental health.

Bowen pays homage to artists such as Wham on “Last Christmas,” Mariah Carey on “All I Want For Christmas Is You,” Dolly Parton on “Once Upon A Christmas,” and Merle Haggard on “If We Make It Through December” featuring Cody Canada. The album also features Bowen’s two sons, Brock and Bruce Bowen, on “Holly Jolly Christmas” and “White Christmas.”

The country singer + songwriter stated in a press release, “I’ve always wanted to make a Christmas album that reflects all of that. All that I’ve grown to love. I can remember sitting around listening to Christmas music with my mom and sisters and singing every word. So when it came time to choose the songs for this album, I wanted those to be part of the project. But on top of the classic songs I grew up with, I want to introduce my kids to the modern holiday songs by my favorite singers or things that I’ve watched on TV that also became part of what Christmas means to me. So this record is a reflection of all of that… with a timeless feel. It was made with friends and family, singing songs that came to mean something to me over the years. And maybe, if we’re lucky, something on this album might become a small part of what Christmas means to you. I hope you enjoy it.”

“Holly Jolly Christmas” finds Bowen blissfully singing the classic sing-along with his son Brock tailing off his sentences. “White Christmas” presents the same rundown with the singer’s son Bruce creating one big family affair. That’s what the holidays are all about. He also put a modern country twist on country Christmas classics such as Dolly Parton’s “Once Upon A Christmas” and Merle Haggard’s “If We Make It Through December” featuring Cody Canada.

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

Twelve Twenty-Five Tracklist:

1. Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)

2. O Holy Night

3. Santa Claus Is Coming To Town

4. I’ll Be Home For Christmas

5. Holly Jolly Christmas (ft. Brock Bowen)

6. Please Come Home For Christmas

7. White Christmas (ft. Bruce Bowen)

8. All I Want For Christmas Is You

9. Til The Season Comes Round Again ft. Sean McConnell

10. Once Upon A Christmas

11. If We Make It Through December ft. Cody Canada

12. Last Christmas

13. Silent Night

—————

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 Josh Kerr ‘How Do You Remember Me’

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Josh Kerr How Do You Remember Me

I love being a songwriter, and that’s really what this record is about.”- Josh Kerr

With several years as a hit songwriter and producer under his belt, Josh Kerr is stepping out into the limelight for the first time as an artist, releasing his first project to date. The singer-songwriter’s debut album How Do You Remember Me premiered today, and it is the type of record that will make you feel something. Perfectly named, the album is both memorable and emotive. From sadness to nostalgia to retrospection, Kerr delivers eleven songs that will entice each and every type of country fan because of its raw honesty and creative innovation.

Kerr’s entire project is a relatable story, laced with thought-provoking lyrics and vulnerable vocals. Regardless of the instrumental arrangement or the production behind each track, every song displays his song-writing genius in the best light, while still maintaining a strong vocal delivery.

The record is anchored by two polarizing songs, including the title track and “The World Didn’t Stop Spinning.” The first is a pensive song that begs to understand how an ex-lover remembers the protagonist. We all have specific memories that bring us back to moments with the individual we once loved, but Kerr flips the script, wondering how his ex remembers him. On the other hand of the spectrum, the last track, “The World Didn’t Stop Spinning,” is a raw ballad sans production that painfully reminds listeners that life goes on; despite the devastation that comes from a break-up. In a hopeful sentiment, Kerr realistically depicts that things do, in fact, get better with time.

In the pre-released track, “In Case I Never See You Again” and the smooth, “Whole Damn Thing,” Kerr relies on his past experiences with love, but looks to the future with promise and excitement. The former is a fun tune about running into a potential love interest and not wanting to miss your opportunity. Similar to the vibe of Brett Young’s “Ticket to L.A.,” Kerr seizes the opportunity of potential on this track. The latter is the ultimate love song, where the singer acknowledges that everyone has a past, but that no one is too un-perfect to love. It also helps that the song is as catchy as can be!

“Girl I want the whole damn thing / The good, the bads, the highs, the lows / the in between / Every crack put back together / The broken piece / I want everything”

Kerr continues to reflect on his own experiences in the retrospective songs, “Still Our Town,” his debut single, “It Wasn’t That Long Ago,” and “Oklahoma.” The three tracks are contemporary and unique. “Still Our Town” is the age old story of feeling like your town, your favorite places, and your favorite activities no longer belong to you because they remind you too much of a broken relationship, while “It Wasn’t That Long Ago” solemnly reminds us that things can change in an instant. On the other hand, “Oklahoma” is a tearful ballad, where Kerr sings about losing a lover to her home state. Heather Morgan lent her vocals to the track, which completely upped the ante.

“And what’s worse I didn’t lose you to a person / I lost you to a place / Don’t wanna hate you Oklahoma / But you’re why she had to leave / Truth is that I don’t even know ya / I just know she loves you more than me.”

The theme of reflection and nostalgia continues to carry through in “If I’m Being Honest,” “How Do You Know, and “Love Me Now.” All three songs tug at your heartstrings, as the hurt is evident in each track. The first expresses the pain associated with the love of your life marrying someone else. “How Do You Know” is a stripped down vocal that focuses on the inner turmoil of getting over someone. Finally, with a more cheerful backing track, “Love Me Now” expresses the desire of wishing that a relationship could have happened now, rather than in the past. Similar to the sentiment of “Man Enough Now” by Chris Bandi, Kerr admits that things could have been different if we only knew what we know now.

Of course, the record would not be complete without a final, soft, love song. “Only” is one of the most romantic songs on the record. The soul and passion radiate throughout the song, and if you weren’t already a believer in Kerr’s talent, you will be after listening to this heartfelt track.

“Baby I’m only for you / Only / Nobody knows you like you / know me / I’ll do what I got to do / Girl, just to prove to you / That I won’t ever leave you / Only / Baby I’m only for you.”

Overall the record truly encompasses the seasons of Kerr’s life in a fresh and alluring way. Clearly, a songwriter at heart, Kerr made sure that all aspects of his debut project were authentic to him, whether it be his story or songs that he loves, which every music lover can appreciate.

To keep up with Josh Kerr follow him on Instagram and Twitter.

How Do You Remember Me Track Listing
1. “How Do You Remember Me” (Josh Kerr, Jordan Minton, Jordan Reynolds, Nick Wayne)
2. “In Case I Never See You Again” (Kerr, Jacob Davis, Michael Hardy)
3. “Still Our Town” (Kerr, Minton)
4. “Oklahoma (feat. Heather Morgan)” (Kerr, Davis, Sean McConnell)
5. “If I’m Being Honest” (Kerr, Cary Barlowe, Trent Harmon)
6. “It Wasn’t That Long Ago” (Kerr, Minton, Reynolds)
7. “How Do You Know (feat. Amy Wadge)” (Kerr, RaeLynn, Amy Wadge)
8. “Love Me Now” (Kerr, Tom Douglas)
9. “Only” (Kerr, Reynolds)
10. “Whole Damn Thing” (Kerr, Minton)
11. “The World Didn’t Stop Spinning” (Kerr, Ben Roberts)
NYCountry Swag Picks: 
1. Still Our Town
2. Love Me Now
3. Whole Damn Thing

How Do You Remember Me 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: