LANCO’s new song “First Beer” is available now, April 9th, on all streaming platforms. Take a look below as we dig a little deeper into the track.
Platinum-selling country group LANCO are back with their second single of 2021. The group dropped “Near Mrs” at the beginning of the year, and are now following that release with another creative track, “First Beer”.
If the brand new song could personify anything it would be nostalgia. LANCO created a song that makes us all go back to the time we drank our first beer, but moreover, the time where we were so smitten with another person for the first time. It’s so interesting how certain memories are etched into our brains and hearts for a lifetime; despite, how minuscule that might have been in the grand scheme of things.
“We lost touch after high school, but I don’t really remember why // As the years go by // And the memories fade // There’s a night in July // That always stays // ’cause I remember my first beer // It was a bittersweet taste, but I had a straight face // Raised it up and I said cheers // Like a scene in the movies // Doing something to me // the memory is crystal clear // it went down pretty smooth, but if you want to know the truth // I remember my first beer // ’cause I drank it, I drank it // with you”
LANCO’s “First Beer” is available now, April 9th
LANCO makes you feel something with this song. They transport us all back to a time in our lives that we wish we could relive over and over again. The first time we see this song performed live, we are certain that we will remember it for a long time coming.
Fans can join our Weekly Round-Up e-newsletter here, for the latest in country music and more news about future LANCO releases.
“First Beer” 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.
Jameson Rodgers announced his next EP, In It For The Money, due out April 23rd. Additionally, he dropped a brand new song, “Good Dogs”, available now, April 9th, everywhere you buy or stream music. Take a look below as we dig a little deeper into the track.
One of our former Swag Spotlight artists, Jameson Rodgers is proving to be quite the force in country music. His debut single “Some Girls” went number one in October, and he has continued the momentum since. Today, he announced his next EP, In It For The Money, due out April 23rd, and dropped another heartfelt tune entitled “Good Dogs.”
Written during a writer’s retreat with a few of his buddies and fellow songwriters, Rodgers created a unique, yet powerful tune. “Good Dogs” is all about how important our pets are to us throughout the many stages of life. If the song sounds familiar, it may be because the singer leaked the song back in January, when he shared a clip of him playing the song on Youtube. Similar to Riley Green’s hit, “I Wish Grandpas Never Died” Rodgers’ new song tugs at listeners’ heartstrings as he conveys the message that we all feel, we wish dogs lived forever.
Jameson Rodgers’ EP, ‘In It For The Money’ is due out April 23rd
“Good trucks they’ll run forever if you keep oil in ‘em and you treat ‘em right // A good woman holds you together, she’ll stick with you for the rest of your life // Good buddies will always come running, got your back no matter what // But good dogs don’t live long enough”
Moreover, the tearjerker tells a compelling story, reminding us all to not take the people and pets we love and the things we cherish for granted. As usual, Rodgers’ vocals are powerful on the track too. The singer-songwriter is proving to be one of the newer artists that we are most excited about!
Fans can join our Weekly Round-Up e-newsletter here, for the latest in country music and more news about future Jameson Rodgers releases.
“Good Dogs” 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.
In an attempt to reclaim her back catalog of music, Taylor Swift is releasing reimagined versions of her old albums, starting today with Fearless (Taylor’s Version). In addition to the new recordings, the collection includes unreleased songs “From The Vault” including tracks featuring Keith Urban and Maren Morris. Take a look below as we dig a little deeper into the project.
Fans have waited patiently for the release of the reimagined album, Fearless (Taylor’s Version), as the Pennsylvania native announced in 2019 that she was planning to re-record her first six albums when she legally could. Fearless was first released in 2008 and not only earned the Pennsylvania native her first two GRAMMYs but also gave her the honor of having the most awarded album in country music history.
The 26-track project is not only filled with the album’s original songs we know and love, but also includes six unreleased songs “From The Vault”. Encompassed with heartbreak, love, and bravery, this album has the nostalgia of the country Taylor we were introduced to, yet has the vocals of the mature artist we know today.
Three of the six vault songs feature award-winning country singers Maren Morris and Keith Urban. “You All Over Me” featuring Maren Morris was released last month. Written by Swift and Scooter Carusos, the track focuses on the struggles of moving on after a breakup. Morris joins in on the first chorus and continues throughout the ballad. The two of them together are the perfect blend as they compliment each other perfectly on the harmonies.
“That’s When” and “We Were Happy” feature country superstar Keith Urban. Written by Liz Rose and Swift, “We Were Happy” starts off slow but picks up during the chorus where Urban joins in. An acoustic ballad about reflecting upon the happy times of a relationship before it ended, Swift and Urban’s voices are flawless together. “That’s When” written by Brad Warren, Brett Warren, and Swift is a catchy duet about two exes reminiscing on their relationship. Urban was the perfect choice for the song as once again, the two showcase how well their voices mix.
Swift recently shared how excited she was to have him be a part of the album, “ I’m really honored that @KeithUrban is a part of this project, duetting on “That’s When” and singing harmonies on “We Were Happy”. I was his opening act during the Fearlessalbum era and his music has inspired me endlessly.
Overall, Fearless (Taylor’s Version) reminds us why it won Album of the Year at the GRAMMYs, The CMAs, as well as the ACM Awards. We can’t wait for the other re-recordings!
Taylor Swift’s ‘Fearless (Taylor’s Version)’ is available now, April 9th
Fans can join our Weekly Round-Up e-newsletter here, for the latest in country music and more news about future Taylor Swift releases.
Fearless (Taylor’s Version) 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.
https://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/taylor-swift-fearless-cover.jpg6301200Rebekah Milstedhttps://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/logo-new-cs-white.pngRebekah Milsted2021-04-09 10:08:452021-04-09 10:10:52Taylor Swift Releases Reimagined Album, Fearless (Taylor’s Version)
Tim Montana’s new album, Long Shots, is available everywhere you buy or stream music now, April 9th. Featuring 12 tracks co-written by Montana and a slew of other heavy-hitters including David Lee Murphy, Erik Dylan, Josh Thomspon, Micah Wilshire, and more. Take a look below as dive a little deeper into the collection of music.
While Tim Montana may not be a household name just yet, he’s poised on the brink of something big with his BBR Music Group major-label debut album, Long Shots, is out today, April 9th. Despite finally being signed to a label, the country-rocker has been hustling for years, making a name for himself in business, television, music, and more, and he couldn’t be more thankful for where he’s ended up.
“I heard ‘no’ from just about every record label around (more than once from some), but all my life I’ve never let outside factors stand in the way of my aspirations—instead the rejection fueled me to dig my heels in more, get a little scrappier and work even harder,” said Montana in a recent press release. “The fact that I’m now about to put out an album as a signed artist kind of blows my mind in the best way—I’m lucky enough to be six feet up instead of six feet under and I celebrate that every day.”
From the opening notes of “Do It Fast,” it’s clear the listeners are in for a ride. With its stomping opening beats and driving guitar, the song, written by Montana, David Lee Murphy, and Micah Wilshire, is the perfect introduction to the album, and for many, to Montana. It’s high-energy and explosive, as Montana advises that “If you’re gonna stay up // And do it all night long // Driving through life // Like it can’t go wrong // Put the pedal down and don’t look back // The key to hard living is to do it fast.”
The 1-2 punch of energy continues on “Get Em Up,” inviting “everybody get your hands in the air,” and we can immediately picture a crowd of concertgoers lifting their beers in the air as Montana hits the stage to this track. This song is an invitation into Montana’s world, and it’s the perfect follow-up track to “Do It Fast.”
While Montana is definitely a ball of energy on Long Shots, he does have a softer side, evidenced on songs like “Bar Band” and “Gone Looks Better.” On the latter, he sings of an ex who is clearly handling a breakup better than he is. Meanwhile, the former is a love song where he namedrops famous country acts, proclaiming, “I want to get you // like a bar band gets you // Turned up to eleven when the night moves hit you // Get you smiling // Get you laughing // I want to get you like a bar band gets you.”
“River Kids,” co-written by Montana, Wilshire, and Erik Dylan, is an ode to his upbringing, celebrating the days when he was a kid, without a care in the world. “Take me back // take me back,” He pleads, and it’s a sentiment almost every adult can relate to from time to time. “Back when we were river kids // And didn’t have a care in this ol world // Take me back // Take me back // Underneath that big sky bridge // When love and life were simple // Back when we were river kids.”
The album’s title track is easily one of the highlights of the collection, celebrating the underdogs who end up with significant others that seem just a bit unconventional or out of their league. “Here’s to the long shots // Last calls // Good ol’ boys like me,” Montana sings. “Had to wait a long time // To find my knock me off my feet.” While the song is clearly about a relationship, it could also apply to his career, as he was an underdog in the industry before releasing this album.
The album ends with “To An End,” a somber and haunting track about redemption. “I bow my head // And close my eyes // And pray the shaking stops in time // So I can look her in the eyes again.” For an album that’s such high-energy, it’s quite the sonic foray, proving what a talent Montana really is.
Long Shots is an explosive collection of in-your-face and high-energy country rock that’s absolutely perfect for summer and tailgates. However, it’s far from one-note, weaving in tales of love, heartache, and redemption, keeping the listener intrigued to the very last note.
NYCS Picks:
Long Shots
Bar Band
Do It Fast
Tim Montana’s ‘Long Shots’ is available now, April 9th
Fans can join our Weekly Round-Up e-newsletter here, for the latest in country music and more news about future Tim Montana releases.
Long Shots 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.
Luke Bryan’s Born Here Live Here Die Here (Deluxe Edition) is available everywhere you buy or stream music today, April 9th. After landing four number one songs on the original album, Bryan adds six brand new tracks to the deluxe version. Take a look below as we dig a little deeper into the new music.
Today, the Deluxe Edition adds six new songs to the project, including previously released “Country Does” and “Drink A Little Whiskey Down”. The remaining songs are “Waves”, which Bryan played an unreleased version of for fans on Facebook Live when he announced the Deluxe Album, “Bill Dance”, “Up”, and “Floatin This Creek”.
“Country Does” is about as country as it gets and is the perfect track to add to the album and lead the deluxe tracks. It is true to Bryan’s upbringing and classic to what he so often sings about, growing up and the small-town way of life. “Drink a Little Whiskey Down” plays between being truly over a past love and trying to convince yourself that you are, with a little help from the bottle.
Next up, “Waves” is about summer love and the stars aligning for a perfect night. It shares the same writers as “Sunrise, Sunburn, Sunset” and gives a similar image of spending summer with the one you love and those nights you hope never end.
In “Bill Dance”, Bryan pays tribute to the man who fostered his love for fishing. It makes sense that Bryan was the lead writer, as his passion for fishing and admiration for his idol so strongly shines through the entirety of the song.
“There’s a lot of heroes out there these days // but if you ask me mine, there’s only one name I’ll say // Bill Dance, fishing for a living // Saturday morning, on television // A Georgia boy learning how to hook big bass from the best damn fisherman the world’s ever had”
“Up” is another song about the way Bryan was raised and the life he had in small-town Georgia. It’s about being grateful for the way he grew up but also how everything in his life circles back to his faith and how important it is to everything he does.
“Up, in the sky // There’s a guy, looking down on us // Looking up, our whole life // raised up right, in a town nobody knows // what a way to grow, Up”
“Floatin’ This Creek” closes the album as a laid-back song that applies to both a day of fishing and life in general. It’s about going with the flow, taking some time to relax, not always needing to have a plan, and soaking it all in.
“I’m just floatin’ this creek and taking it slow // tryna catch something big and sip something cold // I’d be a liar if I said I had a plan today // except watch these banks roll by, take it all in // don’t get too deep, don’t forget where I’ve been // nothing but time to see where it takes me, floatin’ this creek”
Luke Bryan’s ‘Born Here Live Here Die Here (Deluxe Edition)’ is available now, April 9th
Fans can join our Weekly Round-Up e-newsletter here, for the latest in country music and more news about future Luke Bryan releases.
Born Here Live Here Die Here (Deluxe Edition) 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.
https://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/luke-bryan-deluxe.jpg6301200Caleigh DeCapriohttps://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/logo-new-cs-white.pngCaleigh DeCaprio2021-04-09 09:07:082021-04-09 09:14:19Luke Bryan: ‘Born Here Live Here Die Here’ (Deluxe Edition) – Album Review
Brett Kissel’s brand new album, What Is Life?, is available everywhere now, April 9th. Take a look below as we dig a little deeper into the 14-track collection of original material.
Brett Kissel’s brand new album, ‘What Is Life?’, is available everywhere now, April 9th
There’s music and then there’s artistry. Brett Kissel’s brand new record What Is Life? is the latter. The Canadian country superstar outdoes himself with this new release, creating a powerful project that is all love, all heart, and all honesty. The inspiration for the record stems from the philosophical question “What Is Life?” It is clear from this project that Kissel has answered that question for himself.
The first track off the project, “What Is Life? – A Perspective” sets the tone for the entire record. Interestingly enough, it is not a song, but a poetic prose that questions the meaning of life, how to live life in abundance and in gratitude, and the importance of family. Kissel asks the listener “What brings tears to your eyes or joy to your heart? What brings angst to your backbone, brings fire to your belly?,” adding, “I’m trying to figure it out too.”
With the rest of the album, fans get to hear exactly what conclusions the singer-songwriter has drawn from the original question. Songs like the lead single, “Make A Life, Not A Living” and “Down To Earth” remind us to fill our lives with experiences and moments with the people we love, rather than with money and material objects. Both songs encourage listeners to remove the veil that so often clouds our vision and to focus on the people and the experiences that bring us the most joy.
In a similar vein, “Die To Go Home” and “Everything In The Rearview” reminds listeners of the importance of sitting firmly in your roots. The former is a song about the appreciation of where you’re from, while the latter, one of our favorites, is one of the most nostalgic songs off the record. “Everything In The Review” takes us on a trip down memory lane reminding us of all the things that make us who we are.
“All the good, the bad, the tears, the laughs, the bitter, and the sweet // All the time we lost / The parking lots, those memories still run deep // It’s as part of me as my heart beating”
Proving that the past is just as important as the present, Kissel enlisted the help of his three children on this one-of-a-kind project. Family is clearly embedded into the fabric of who the singer is and the type of music he makes, so vocal clips of each of his three kids, Aria, Leo, and Mila were the perfect fit for the project. The children say things such as “You’re the love of my heart,” and “I love you more dad.” Even more special, in “From Leo,” Kissel’s wife is heard saying things like “You are brave” and “You are important” to their son.
Although most of the songs have at least a little bit to do with love, “Without” and “From This Day Forward” are the two most obviously romantic tunes. “Without” shows off Kissel’s vocals like no other, while “From This Day Forward” could be a future wedding song for anyone getting married soon. The song is lyrical vows, and we think it’s pretty sweet!
“I wouldn’t doubt us for a second // Now here we are, taking the next step // I want you to know that // I promise to put you first for the rest of my life // Take on your problems when they get too heavy // I’m always going to stand by your side // Hold you up when you feel unsteady”
Finally, we could not end this review without talking about the final track off the record, “Kindness.” The whole message of the album comes full circle with this song. The beautifully articulated tune is acoustic and even acapella at times, but the message is all heart. Making a reference to track number one, Kissel pictures what a world would be like if kindness was contagious. The message is just as special as the song, and the entire project as a whole.
“If kindness was contagious // And no one could escape it // It would be a four-letter word nobody used // Different isn’t dangerous // Hands were meant for shaking // Hearts were made for making love // This I promise you // The world would be such a better place // If kindness was contagious”
Get to know more about Brett Kissel in our interview below, where the talented singer-songwriter joined us for an acoustic performance and to chat about his artistry back in 2019.
Fans can join our Weekly Round-Up e-newsletter here, for the latest in country music and more news about future Brett Kissel releases.
What Is Life? 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.
https://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/brett-kissel-what-is-life.jpg6301200Erica Zismanhttps://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/logo-new-cs-white.pngErica Zisman2021-04-09 08:43:172021-04-09 08:43:17Brett Kissel: ‘What Is Life?’ – Album Review
Priscilla Block has announced her debut self-titled EP is set for April 30th. Additionally, she dropped a brand new song, “Wish You Were The Whiskey”, available now, April 7th, everywhere you buy or stream music. Take a look below as we dig a little deeper into the track.
TikTok star turned major-label artist, Priscilla Block released a brand-new song today, April 7th, titled “Wish You Were The Whiskey.” This track follows “I Bet You Wanna Know” and “Just About Over You,” which soared to number one on iTunes within 12 hours of its release.
Block has been teasing this song to fans on social media for a while now. She even burned a copy of the song on CDs and mailed them out to some lucky fans for early-listen access. The vocalist in the song is at the bar, pouring back Jameson to help her get over a breakup. Over a pop-rock production, Block expresses the similarities between the whiskey and her ex.
“Now I’m drunk, like a fireball lighting me up // Put it to my lips and I feel that rush // Letting 80-proof do what it does // and I’m high, it’s rocking me through the night // Keeping me warm, holding me so tight // Finally feeling fine and then it hits me // I wish you were the whiskey”
Block admitted on Instagram that a little over a year ago, she tried to pitch the song to Jason Aldean – and it would have been perfect for him. Between the lyrics, the imagery it portrays, and the loud, percussion-heavy sound, it is right up his alley and his voice would sound great on it. He already had a lot of songs about whiskey on his latest album, 9, which may be why he did not decide to cut it, or perhaps he just never saw the post. It was surely a missed opportunity because, with its catchy chorus, we think this could become a big hit for Block.
Block was singing covers and even some original songs for her followers on TikTok before officially releasing “Just About Over You” and signing with UMG Nashville last September. Her humorous side and positive attitude along with her powerful vocals and creative songwriting ability has helped her become an overnight success, which is why we selected her as one of NYCSwag’s 2021 artists to watch.
Priscilla Block’s self-titled debut EP is due out April 30
Fans can join our Weekly Round-Up e-newsletter here, for the latest in country music and more news about future Priscilla Block releases.
“Wish You Were The Whiskey” 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.
https://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/ep-priscilla-block.jpg6301200Dylan Bestlerhttps://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/logo-new-cs-white.pngDylan Bestler2021-04-07 11:52:082021-04-07 11:52:08Priscilla Block Reveals Debut EP + Drops “Wish You Were The Whiskey”
CANAAN SMITH – Canaan Smith trusted his gut, took the necessary time, and put out a genuine record that contains elements of modern and traditional country with moments of celebration, heartbreak, and honest stories. – Listen Here
CHRISSY METZ – From lyrics to vocals, Chrissy Metz delivers another beautiful song in her latest release “Girl Go”. – Listen Here
CAROLYN MILLER – A song that many brides and grooms can enjoy for years to come, Carolyn Miller just released “When I Say I Do Today’. – Listen Here
MITCH ROSSELL & TRISHA YEARWOOD – The collaboration of a lifetime for Mitch Rossell, he and Trisha Yearwood created a masterpiece with a brand new song called “Ran into You”. – Listen Here
LUKE COMBS – Luke Combs just dropped another unreleased track, “We Still Drink Beer”. Learn all about the fan’s tweet that inspired the anthem here. – Listen Here
Take a listen to all of these tracks and more here on our ‘New Country Music’ playlist. Be sure to give the playlist a follow for your weekly new country music fix.
https://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/NEW-MUSIC-FRIDAY-IG-POST.jpg12001200Team Country Swaghttps://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/logo-new-cs-white.pngTeam Country Swag2021-04-02 11:50:432021-04-02 12:34:10NEW MUSIC FRIDAY: The Latest in Country Music – 4/2/21
‘This Is Us’ star, Chrissy Metz delivers an uplifting message with healing vocals in her brand new song, “Girl Go”, available now, April 2nd. Take a look below as we dig a little deeper into the track.
Chrissy Metz, well-known for her acting role as Kate Pearson in the TV series This Is Us, has also been a growing name on the country music scene over the last few years. She performed on both the ACM and CMT stages in 2019. The ACM Awards marked her debut live television performance, where she joined several female artists on stage to perform “Standing With You” from the movie Breakthrough (in which she also starred in), including Mickey Guyton, Lauren Alaina, Carrie Underwood, and Maddie and Tae.
A few months later, Metz performed Luke Comb’s “Even Though I’m Leaving” at the CMT Awards in honor of his New Artist of the Year Award. With a growing fan base upon her entrance into Country Music, Metz released her debut single “Talking to God” in April 2020 and followed with “Actress” and “Feel Good” shortly thereafter.
“Girl Go” is all about having the courage to not only chase your dreams but also the humility to not forget who you are or where you came from. From the start of the song, it gives a very Faith Hill vibe, and as it goes on, it even shares a very similar message to “Mississippi Girl”.
“Girl Go” is about a girl that once was struggling day to day doing the jobs she never thought she’d have to settle for and goes on to live her wildest dreams. Metz touches on the hate and judgment from others that are constantly surrounding people as they try to make it in this world, saying that you may never get used to it, but it’ll never stop, it’s just the way it goes. This song stands as a message to not worry about others and all the reasons not to, and acts as the push one needs to follow their own heart.
“At the end of the day, just needed someone to say // Girl go, dream on down that road // Roll down that window and let that freedom in // Let your hand that’s in the wind, girl go // You can always come back home // You might see your name in shining lights all around the world // But don’t you ever let that girl go”
Chrissy Metz new song “Girl Go” is available now, April 2nd
Fans can join our Weekly Round-Up e-newsletter here, for the latest in country music and more news about future Chrissy Metz releases.
“Girl Go” 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.
https://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/chrissy-metz.jpg6301200Caleigh DeCapriohttps://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/logo-new-cs-white.pngCaleigh DeCaprio2021-04-02 11:09:182021-04-02 11:09:18Chrissy Metz Delivers Uplifting Message With New Song “Girl Go”
Canaan Smith’s highly anticipated sophomore album, High Country Sound, is available now, April 2nd, everywhere you buy or stream music. Take a look below for our exclusive interview and full review of the project.
Canaan Smith’s new album, ‘High Country Sound’ is available now, April 2nd
It may have taken you some time to recall the name “Canaan Smith” because it feels like forever since his name has been commonly used in country music. His debut album, Bronco was released in June of 2015 and it produced the massive single “Love You Like That,” which hit number one a month later. After taking a break from music for a few years, he became the first artist to sign with Florida Georgia Line’s newly-formed label, Round Here Records in August of 2019 and released the song, “Beer Drinkin’ Weather.” The release of other stand-alone singles such as “Life Ain’t Fair,” “Country Boy Things,” and “Pour Decisions” followed, and now, we finally have a true sophomore album from him.
High Country Sound is a project that speaks Smith’s truth from beginning to end. Impressively, Smith co-wrote every single song on the record, which is no easy feat. Not only that, but Smith also is the sole producer on 8 of 12 tracks and co-produced the remaining 4 with Tyler Hubbard and Brian Kelley of Florida Georgia Line. This is a standout achievement of the platinum hit-maker.
“When I moved here sixteen years ago from Virginia, I set out to write the kind of music that I’m doing now with this new album,” Smith tells us in our recent exclusive interview. “But somewhere along the way I sort of lost sight a little bit and started reaching more than digging and wasn’t doing what comes natural to me or what felt like an expression of who I am.”
Smith showcases his true, country-boy self throughout this entire album by discussing themes of love, heartbreak, growing up, and having a good time. You can hear the authenticity from Smith in the first two tracks, “Grounded” and “Mason Jars & Fireflies.” In the former, he reflects on hardships he has dealt with in the past but is thankful for them because they shaped the person he is today. In “Mason Jars & Fireflies,” Smith paints a beautiful picture of a simpler time when fireflies lighting up the summer sky were the most important thing on their minds. “Cabin In The Woods” also reminisces on summertime during his teenage years. He recognizes how much he has grown since then, but the memories made at that particular cabin remain fresh in his mind.
“Colder Than You” was the first song he released from this project and will serve as the lead single. Written with Corey Crowder and Jared Mullins, the singer finds comfort in a 12-pack when his girlfriend leaves him. This is not a sad breakup song, however. He realizes how much she tried to change about him, the people he hung out with, and the music he listened to and discovers he is happier without her. The cheeky and clever songwriting makes it a fun track to sing-along with and drink a beer to.
“Girl, I ain’t drowning your memory // These mountains are all that’s in here gettin’ blue // Baby, I might’ve finally found something colder than you.”
“High Country” and “Catch Me If You Can” are fun, upbeat songs all about having a good time. In the former, the singer’s girlfriend just ended things but he has a hard time being sad about it because “it’s hard to be low in high country.” This track contains a heavy amount of steel, fiddle, banjo, and harmonica, giving it a classic country sound. You can hear the Florida Georgia Line in these tracks, as they were both co-produced by Kelley and Hubbard alongside Smith.
“Sweet Virginia” is not only an ode to his home state but shows praise to his 1-year-old daughter, Virginia Rose. In the first verse, he reflects on the difficult decision to leave home to chase his dream in Nashville, but by the second verse, you can interpret the lyrics in either direction. This song is near and dear to his heart in two ways, which is probably why it was his favorite on the record.
“This record is an attempt for people to know me and that song covers all the bases,” he tells us. “In one listen you can kind of get the whole picture and story of my life until now.”
The final three songs, “Like I Ain’t Missing You;” “Highway Blues;” and “Losing Sleep Over A Girl” all touch on love and show his vulnerable side. In the first, the singer uses alcohol and other women to help him get over his ex. He acts fine, but deep down he knows he is just lying to himself. In the second, he hops in his car and goes for a long drive to try and ease his mind. He states: “Wish I was holdin’ you ‘Stead of huggin’ on a yellow line.”
The album ends on a positive note however, as he tells the story of how he fell in love with the two girls in his life: his wife and his daughter. It all started with a kiss after a George Strait concert; he could not sleep that night and he cannot sleep now due to his crying baby. The sweetest part is, he wouldn’t want it any other way.
“Wide awake, heart racin’ // So hypnotized // Lost in the moment, still lost in her eyes // As the sun made its way ‘cross the dark side of the world // There I was again / Losing sleep over a girl”
Smith discussed in our interview that he didn’t care about making a “cool” album with commercial success; he just wanted to create a project that was authentic and true to himself.
“The more you write your personal truth, it seems like that would be more isolating but it’s the exact opposite. In my experience, the more honest and open I am about my personal self, I find it resonates stronger with people than the other stuff does…I’ve gotten messages from listeners that have been finding themselves in these songs and feeling like they’re connected to them and it makes me feel really proud.”
It’s very easy to make something generic that everyone can relate to. Smith trusted his gut, took the necessary time, and put out a genuine record that contains elements of modern and traditional country with moments of celebration, heartbreak, and honest stories. It must have been a lot of pressure to come back with a sophomore record six years after your debut, but Smith delivered, and in a big way.
NYCS Top Picks
Losin’ Sleep Over A Girl
Grounded
Colder Than You
Sweet Virginia
Canaan Smith’s HIGH COUNTRY SOUND Track Listing:
1. “Grounded” (Canaan Smith, Jim Beavers, Ben Stennis) *
2. “Mason Jars & Fireflies” (Canaan Smith, Brian Kelley, Corey Crowder) *
3. “Colder Than You” (Canaan Smith, Jared Mullins, Corey Crowder) ^
4. “High Country” (Canaan Smith, Blake Redferrin, Corey Crowder) ^
5. “Catch Me If You Can” ft. Brent Cobb (Canaan Smith, Brian Kelley, Tyler Hubbard, Jason Afable) *
6. “Cabin In The Woods” (Canaan Smith, Josh Miller, Brian Kelley, David Garcia) ^
7. “American Dream” (Canaan Smith, Blair Daly) *
8. “Sweet Virginia” (Canaan Smith, Brian Kelley, Tyler Hubbard, Corey Crowder) ^
9. “Still” (Canaan Smith, Ben Stennis, Jim Beavers) *
10. “Like I Ain’t Missin’ You” (Canaan Smith, Blake Redferrin, Jason Afable) *
11. “Highway Blues” (Canaan Smith, Jake Rose, Brian Kelley) *
12. “Losin’ Sleep Over A Girl” (Canaan Smith, Marv Green, Kyle Fishman) * * Produced by Canaan Smith ^ Produced by Canaan Smith, Brian Kelley + Tyler Hubbard
High Country Sound 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.
https://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/canaan-smith-new-music.jpg6301200Dylan Bestlerhttps://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/logo-new-cs-white.pngDylan Bestler2021-04-02 00:25:462021-04-02 00:25:46Canaan Smith: ‘High Country Sound’ Album Review + Interview
