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)”
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.
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.
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https://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/re-dunn-ronnie-dunn-covers.jpg6301200Nicole Pieringhttps://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/logo-new-cs-white.pngNicole Piering2020-01-10 13:54:382020-01-10 13:54:38NYCS First Impression Ronnie Dunn ‘Re-Dunn’
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
‘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.
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.
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https://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/tenille-arts-love-heartbreak.jpg6301200Lucie Bernheimhttps://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/logo-new-cs-white.pngLucie Bernheim2020-01-10 01:06:152020-01-10 01:06:15NYCS First Impression Tenille Arts ‘Love, Heartbreak & Everything In Between’
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.
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.
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.
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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.
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.
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.
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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.
“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?
Fill out the form below to enter to win! Then head to Instagram, for additional chances to win *All winners will be notified by Wednesday, December 18th via e-mail or DM.
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.
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https://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/jason-aldean-9.jpg6301200Shanna Vitalianohttps://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/logo-new-cs-white.pngShanna Vitaliano2019-11-25 17:48:002019-12-11 20:31:35NYCS First Impression: Jason Aldean ‘9
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)
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.
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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.
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https://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/lady-antebellum-ocean.jpg6301200Nicole Pieringhttps://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/logo-new-cs-white.pngNicole Piering2019-11-15 12:03:192019-12-11 20:28:10NYCS First Impression: Lady Antebellum ‘Ocean’
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
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.
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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.
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.
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.
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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!
https://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/how-do-you-remember-me.jpg6301200Erica Zismanhttps://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/logo-new-cs-white.pngErica Zisman2019-11-08 01:08:132019-11-08 09:38:12NYCS First Impression Josh Kerr ‘How Do You Remember Me’
Since the 2017 release of his debut album, This One’s for You, Luke Combs has become one of country music’s fastest rising stars. In a sea of tight pants, trucks, and auto-tune, Combs has emerged from the pack as a true talent, known for relying on honest lyrics and traditional country with a modern twist.
Today (November 8), Combs released his sophomore album on Columbia Nashville, What You See Is What You Get, which once again pairs him with the man behind his debut album, producer Scott Moffat. In many ways, this offering is a natural extension of the first album, showing Combs stretching himself, lyrically and musically, without compromising the sound that endeared him to millions.
Combs previewed the album’s first five tracks earlier this year when he released his stellar The Prequel-EP in June. Opening with the first single, and number one smash, “Beer Never Broke My Heart,” the album sails through those songs, including the single-worthy “Refrigerator Door” and the poignant current top 5 radio single, “Even Though I’m Leaving.”
The Prequel-EP was the perfect preview for the seventeen track album, which shows Combs effortlessly flowing from raucous party songs to romantic reflections of love. While some of what Combs does would be considered cliche for any other artist, he manages to pull it off in a way that seems authentic. There’s “Blue Collar Boys,” which celebrates the working man, and while the concept has been done before, Combs just does it oh-so-well.
Likewise, “1, 2 Many” is a drinking song in the vein of Blake Shelton’s “The More I Drink,” but Combs shines here. By pairing him with Brooks & Dunn, he continues to establish himself as a traditionalist with a modern touch. He also shows himself to be a stellar vocalist, matching verses with Ronnie Dunn, one of the genre’s great voices.
Speaking of greats, Combs also joins forces with Eric Church on “Does To Me,” a song celebrating the accomplishments in one’s life that might seem inconsequential, including a little league hit and a date to the prom. “So say I’m a middle of the road/ Not much to show/ Underachieving average Joe/ I’m a hell of a lover/ A damn good brother/ And I wear this heart on my sleeve,” Combs proclaims. “That might not mean much to you, but it does to me.”
The theme of Combs as a relatable every-man continues to be prevalent through the album, including on the album’s title track “What You See Is What You Get” and the rollicking “Angels Working Overtime.” He’s reflective on “New Every Day,” as he moves on from a breakup, “learning something new every day,” and on “Reasons,” where he reflects on the decisions that change one’s life. “So if you see me soaking in these thoughts I’m thinking/ Drowning in some bar room off the deep end,” He sings. “I’ve got my reasons.”
While the album runs the gamut of sounds and emotions, it’s the last track that is sure to stir the heart. The final song, “Better Together,” is a striking piano ballad that shows a softer side of Combs. “Some things just go better together/ Probably always will,” He sings of fiancé , Nicole Hocking, “What’s the point of this old guitar/ If it ain’t got no strings / Or pouring your heart in to a song / That you ain’t gonna sing / It’s a match made up in heaven / Like good old boys and beer/ And me, as long as you’re right here.”
While many artists fall into a sophomore slump, there’s no sign of that on What You See Is What You Get. In fact, it’s quite the opposite, and it turns out what we see and get from Luke Combs is exactly what we want.
NYCountry Swag Picks
1. Does To Me
2. Even Though I’m Leaving
3. What You See Is What You Get
4. Refrigerator Door
What You See Is What You Get Track List
1. “Beer Never Broke My Heart” (Luke Combs/Randy Montana/Jonathan Singleton)
2. “Refrigerator Door” (Luke Combs/Jordan Brooker)
3. “Even Though I’m Leaving” (Luke Combs/Wyatt Durrette/Ray Fulcher)
4. “Lovin’ On You” (Luke Combs/Thomas Archer/Ray Fulcher/James McNair)
5. “Moon Over Mexico” (Luke Combs/Ray Fulcher/Dan Isbell/Jonathan Singleton)
6. “1, 2 Many” (feat. Brooks & Dunn) (Luke Combs/Dan Isbell/Tyler King/Drew Parker)
7. “Blue Collar Boys” (Luke Combs/Erik Dylan/Ray Fulcher/Derrick Moody)
8. “New Every Day” (Luke Combs/Ray Fulcher/Josh Thompson)
9. “Reasons” (Luke Combs/Ray Fulcher/James McNair)
10. “Every Little Bit Helps” (Luke Combs/Chase McGill/James McNair)
11. “Dear Today” (Luke Combs/Erik Dylan/Rob Snyder)
12. “What You See Is What You Get” (Luke Combs/Barry Dean/Jonathan Singleton)
13. “Does to Me” (feat. Eric Church) (Luke Combs/Ray Fulcher/Tyler Reeve)
14. “Angels Workin’ Overtime” (Luke Combs/Josh Phillips/Josh Thompson)
15. “All Over Again” (Luke Combs/Corey Crowder/Ray Fulcher)
16. “Nothing Like You” (Luke Combs/Drew Parker/Robert Williford)
17. “Better Together” (Luke Combs/Dan Isbell/Randy Montana)
Combs is currently on tour through early 2020 in support of his new album and will hit Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, CT, with Morgan Wallen and Jameson Rogers, on November 22.
What You See Is What You Get is now available everywhere you buy or stream music. Take a listen below and check out more new recently released music here on our ‘New Country Music’ playlist. Be sure to give the playlist a follow for your weekly new country music fix.
Want a chance to win a 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, November 25th via e-mail or DM.
* THIS CONTEST HAS ENDED *
PLEASE FOLLOW @NYCOUNTRYSWAG ON INSTAGRAM FOR FUTURE OPPORTUNITIES
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.
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Thank You for supporting Country Music in NYC & Beyond!
Subscribe to our Weekly Round-Up here
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and all things country music in the New York metro area and beyond!
https://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/combs-luke.jpg6301200Nicole Pieringhttps://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/logo-new-cs-white.pngNicole Piering2019-11-08 01:02:082019-11-26 19:31:16NYCS First Impression Luke Combs ‘What You See Is What You Get’
In many ways, the title of Miranda Lambert’s new album, Wildcard, is appropriate. For one, it marks her first release on Vanner Records/RCA Records Nashville. She also co-wrote all of the collection’s fourteen songs, and parted ways with her longtime producer, Frank Liddell, in favor of working with Jay Joyce. Sonically, the album also delivers on the title, showing Lambert returning to her roots as country’s femme-fatale/rebel with a cause, while also exploring her more rocking and tender sides.
For Lambert, Wildcard is quite the departure from 2017’s The Weight of These Wings. Her previous album was dark and brooding, showing the often clever songstress dismayed and different than the artist fans have come to know. “I always have a little bit of cheeky sarcasm in my songs and records. I feel like I missed that a little bit on The Weight of These Wings,” Lambert told Rolling Stone. “And I also needed to have fun. There were some fun moments on The Weight of These Wings, but just that whole portion of my life and art was not the funnest time. With this one I just wanted to cut loose a little bit and get back to the me that was willing to have fun with it and make fun of myself.”
Wildcard shows her cutting loose right out of the gate, opening with “White Trash.” It shows Lambert embracing her past and her reputation in a way that’s snarky and sarcastic. She may no longer live in a trailer park, but she’s still the same ol’ girl she always was. “I can’t keep my white trash off the lawn,” Lambert sings on the tongue-in-cheek track, “I can’t hide it in a closet/ I can’t stuff it in a trunk/ I always know there’s treasure/ Buried somewhere in the junk/ I can keep my roots from showing/ But I’m still dishwater blonde/ I can’t keep my white trash off the lawn.”
The album continues with up-tempo tracks, traversing from the poppy “Mess With My Head” with its heavy bass line to “It All Comes Out in the Wash,” which was Lambert’s first release from Wildcard. On “It All Come Out in the Wash,” Lambert sings one of country music’s most clever lines as of late, “Don’t sweat it, Tide stick’ll get it.”
Other highlights include the Gospel-tinged “Holy Water” and Lambert’s collaboration with Maren Morris on “Way Too Pretty for Prison.” The latter is a humorous take on the reasons why the duo shouldn’t kill a cheating husband. Think Brandy Clark’s “Stripes” here, as they sing “But we’re way too pretty for prison/ Hard time ain’t our kind of livin’/ And I don’t want to talk about/ The way those jumpsuits wash us out/ We’re way too pretty for prison.”
While the album is certainly a departure from Lambert’s previous downcast project, there are still moments of vulnerability and introspection. These songs include the album’s final track “Fire Escape,” “Settling Down,” “How Dare You Love,” and “Track Record.” On “Track Record,” Lambert is candid about the failures of her past relationships, owning up to her mistakes. “I can’t help it, I’m in love with love,” She admits here, recounting her failed relationships and her past as “checkered as the floor at the diner on Main Street.”“Girls like me don’t mean it,” She reasons lyrically, “But we don’t know better.”
“Bluebird” is one of the album’s most magical moments, having come from a poem. “Luke (Dick) had texted me the line from an old poem he had seen. It said something about keeping a bluebird in your heart and he said, ‘I want to write that with you because I feel like that’s what you did and that’s what we all do,’” Lambert revealed at an album preview show in Nashville, according to Billboard. “When we got in the room to write it, it felt really magical. Something about a bluebird is hopeful, even through blue times. When I sing this song, I feel a little flutter and I feel every single word I sing.”
Another highlight of the album is “Pretty Bitchin’,” which plays to Lambert’s strength as a lyricist, with an uncanny ability to turn a phrase, playing here on the word pretty. “I use what I’ve got/ I don’t let it go to waste/ I’m pretty from the back/ Kinda pretty in the face/ I hate to admit it/ But it didn’t stop me, did it? / Yeah, life’s pretty weird/ And life’s pretty great/ And life’s pretty good if we live it/ 1-2-3 Mississippi/ Sitting pretty damn pretty on this pretty life I’ve been given/ It’s pretty bitchin’.”
In fact, it’s “Pretty Bitchin'” that may best sum up Wildcard, which is, all in all, pretty bitchin’.
Wildcard Track List
1. White Trash (Lambert, Luke Dick, Natalie Hemby, Laura Veltz)
2. Mess with My Head (Lambert, Dick, Hemby)
3. It All Comes Out in the Wash (Lambert, Hillary Lindsey, Lori McKenna, Liz Rose)
4. Settling Down (Lambert, Dick, Hemby)
5. Holy Water (Lambert, Brent Cobb, Mike Harris, Joshua Taylor)
6. Way Too Pretty for Prison with Maren Morris (Lambert, Lindsey, McKenna, Rose)
7. Locomotive (Lambert, Ashley Monroe, K.S. Rhoads)
8. Bluebird (Lambert, Dick, Hemby)
9. How Dare You Love (Lambert, Monroe, Jamie Kinney)
10. Fire Escape (Lambert, Lindsey, McKenna, Rose)
11. Pretty Bitchin’ (Lambert, Dick, Hemby, Jon Randall)
12. Tequila Does (Lambert, Randall, Jack Ingram)
13. Track Record (Lambert, Lindsey, McKenna, Rose)
14. Dark Bars (Lambert, Rose)
NYCountry Swag Picks:
1. Pretty Bitchin’
2. Track Record
3. Bluebird
4. Way Too Pretty for Prison
Lambert will kick off her Wildcard tour on January 16th in Tupelo, MS. While no New York-area shows have been announced just yet, keep an eye on NYCountry Swag for announcements. In the meantime, Lambert will hit Nashville on January 24, Dallas, TX on February 8, San Diego, CA February 21, and Vancouver, BC on April 25. Support acts on the Wildcard Tour include Elle King, Pistol Annies, LANCO, Maren Morris, Tenille Townes, Ashley McBryde, and Cody Johnson. For a full list of tour dates, visit mirandalambert.com.
Wildcard 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 vinyl copy of Miranda Lambert’s 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, November 11th via e-mail or DM.
* THIS CONTEST HAS ENDED *
PLEASE FOLLOW @NYCOUNTRYSWAG ON INSTAGRAM FOR FUTURE OPPORTUNITIES
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
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and all things country music in the New York metro area and beyond!
https://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/wildcard-miranda-lambert.jpg6301200Nicole Pieringhttps://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/logo-new-cs-white.pngNicole Piering2019-11-01 00:01:102019-11-18 22:54:34NYCS First Impression: Miranda Lambert ‘Wildcard’
