ben-burgess-album-debut

Ben Burgess: ‘Tears the Size of Texas’ – Debut Album Review

/in , , , /by

Ben Burgess’ debut album, Tears the Size of Texas is out now, September 30th on all streaming platforms. Take a listen and read our full review below.

While you may not know the name Ben Burgess just yet, chances are incredibly high that you know a song he’s written. With a career honed on Austin’s famed 6th Street, the Dallas native co-wrote Morgan Wallen’s #1 hit, “Whiskey Glasses,” as well as Tyler Rich’s “The Difference,” Pat Green’s “Drinkin’ Days,” HARDY’s “SIGNED, SOBER YOU,” and many more.

After a stint in Los Angeles spent writing pop songs, where he had a song cut by The Jonas Brothers, the Dallas native headed to Nashville where he signed with Big Loud Records in 2020, releasing his first single, “Tears the Size of Texas,” earlier this year. Today, September 30, the rising star releases his debut album of the same name, featuring ten new tracks co-written by Burgess, alongside the likes of Josh Kerr, Brandy Clark, Ashley Gorley, Jacob Davis, and more.

Despite all his successes as a writer, his debut album almost didn’t happen. “I’d given up on the dream of being an artist,” Burgess admits. “I always wanted to do it and felt like I could, but the pieces never aligned.” However, once he realized that there were few who could sing his songs as well as he could, Burgess decided to continue his musical journey.

As an artist, Burgess is pursuing a sound that is uniquely his own, mixing hints of Texas country with nostalgic tales that he hopes will provide listeners with “three or four-minute movies.” This is especially evident on songs like “Kill a Man,” “Jackson,” and the album’s title track, “Tears the Size of Texas.”

“Jackson,” co-written by Burgess, Clark, Jessie Jo Dillon, and Jesse Frasure, is an immediate standout, offering a male version of the Dolly Parton classic “Jolene.” It may be the only song where Burgess is less than confident, begging “Jackson” not to take his girl. 

“Oh Jackson // Keep your money // Keep your mansion // Keep your tall blonde and handsome // Away from Her // Oh Jackson // Take my daddy’s old guitar // My Best bird dog and my favorite bar and my whole world // Just don’t take my girl”

Meanwhile, he sets the stage as a cowboy full of bravado, warning a girl not to get too close on “Tears the Size of Texas.” “Baby, I’ve always been a cowboy // Just my guitar, my horses and gun,” He admits. “Like the movies I leave with the settin’ sun // And If I was you, baby, I’d run.”

On “High Road,” he shows a lighter side, suggesting partaking in Willie Nelson’s favorite pastime as opposed to drinking, while “Kill a Man” shows his clever lyrics at his finest. His ex has moved on and he wishes her well, but he muses, “I don’t want to know his name // ‘Cause I don’t wanna kill a man.”

And while “Started a Band” and “When We Die” offer booming and anthemic moments, heartache runs rampant on Tears, weaving its way through songs like “White Picket Fence,” “When We Die,” and “Heartbreak.” The latter is one of the album’s most radio-ready singles, a two-stepping ode to the fact that “heartbreak makes the world go ‘round.” Likewise, “White Picket Fence” is another lyrical gem, as Burgess warns that perfection can’t be built on a shaky foundation.

“No never build a white picket fence // Around a house of cards // ‘Cause, the first time that the wind blows babe // The whole thing’s gonna fall apart // So, let’s get out while we both still got a chance // Before our first kiss and our first dance // And a white picket fence.”

A different kind of heartbreak befalls the album’s final track, “Ain’t Got No Phone,” which finds Burgess and his family mourning the death of his father in their own ways. On the sparse and haunting track, he mourns the sad fact that “Heaven ain’t got no phone.”

For Ben Burgess, Tears the Size of Texas is an introduction to an artist who is unapologetically himself. “We can tell these stories and bring people into these worlds and give it more of a world and sound,” he says of the album, which he can’t wait to take on the road. “I want the live show to stay true to the recording because we got the best of the best in the studio,” He says. “I’m so excited to see where the music goes and what happens from here. Because right now, it’s as good as it gets.”

Ben Burgess – Tears the Size of Texas Track List:

  1. Tears the Size of Texas (writers: Ben Burgess, Josh Kerr)
  2. White Picket Fence (writers: Ben Burgess, Kevin Kadish) 
  3. When We Die (writers: Ben Burgess, Josh Kerr) 
  4. Jackson (writers: Ben Burgess, Brandy Clark, Jessie Jo Dillon, Jesse Frasure)
  5. High Road (writers: Ben Burgess, Ryan Beaver, Kevin Kadish, Randy Montana) 
  6. Heartbreak (writers: Ben Burgess, Jacob Durrett, Ashley Gorley)
  7. Kill A Man (writers: Ben Burgess, Kevin Kadish)
  8. Sick and Tired (writers: Ben Burgess, Jacob Davis, Josh Kerr)
  9. Started A Band (writers: Ben Burgess, Chris LaCorte, Hunter Phelps)
  10. Ain’t Got No Phone (written by Ben Burgess)

Country Swag Picks:

  1. Heartbreak
  2. Jackson
  3. Started a Band
ben-burgess-debut-album

Ben Burgess’ debut album, ‘Tears the Size of Texas’ is out now.

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

Ben Burgess is currently touring with Warren Zeiders, and will make a stop at NYC’s Irving Plaza on October 27.

To keep up with the rising star, visit his official website or follow him on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, or Twitter. 

Ben Burgess’ new album, Tears the Size of Texas, is available everywhere you buy or stream music. Take a listen below and check out more new recently released music on our ‘New Country Music’ playlist. Be sure to give the playlist a follow for your weekly new country music fix.

Adam Doleac: ‘Barstool Whiskey Wonderland’ – Debut Album Review

/in , , , /by

Adam Doleac’s debut album, Barstool Whiskey Wonderland is out now, September 30th on all streaming platforms. Take a listen and read our full review below.

With hits like “Whiskey’s Fine,” “Famous,” and “Coulda Loved You Longer,” it’s almost hard to believe that Barstool Whiskey Wonderland is Adam Doleac’s debut album. Yet, the singer-songwriter’s eighteen-track collection with Arista Nashville/Sony Music Nashville is his first full-length offering.

For the Mississippi native who’s been in Nashville for almost a decade, the album marks the culmination of his lifelong dream. Having co-written all but one of the album’s tracks, Doleac is ready to fully make his mark on the genre. “It feels long overdue, and it’s the first time people can really see the whole me,” the singer-songwriter reveals. “An album is a cool thing. It allows you to tell a little bit more of your story, as opposed to just people knowing a song and not knowing you.”

Inspired by the likes of John Mayer, Gavin Degraw, and Amos Lee, there’s an emotional singer-songwriter-meets-country-troubadour that lies within Barstool Whiskey Wonderland. It’s a unique blend that Doleac hopes to establish him as way more than just a flash-in-the-pan artist. “I love things that are timeless and stuff that sticks around,” he says in a statement. “I’m not chasing whatever the newest trend is gonna be for the next six months. And I love that comment when people come over and say ‘I don’t like country, but I love your stuff.’”

Throughout Barstool Whiskey Wonderland, the singer-songwriter flexes his vocal cords, full of soul and grit as he weaves through sad songs and party anthems. Nowhere is this more apparent than on the album’s lush title track, which finds him wondering about a lost love and dealing with the “what-ifs?” of a failed relationship.

Likewise, the album’s opening track, “Don’t It Sound Alright” immediately sets the tone for who Doleac is as an artist. With a soulful and rich tone that’s a unique mix of Gary LeVox meets Gavin DeGraw, his voice immediately draws listeners into his world. “Take me down where the boat meets the water // Where the sun sinks down on a line and a bobber,” He drawls over crooning guitars. “Sitting in a truck bed, sipping red wine // Don’t it sound, don’t it sound alright, yeah.”

Over the album’s eighteen tracks, Doleac tackles everything from drinking and party anthems to love lost and love found. He shines on the romantic tracks, including ‘Til Dawn Do Us Part,” “Fast Asleep,” “Another,” and “Girl in Love.” While he celebrates the fact that “there ain’t nothing like a girl in love” on the latter, “Another” is one of the album’s most moving standouts. During the pandemic, Doleac spent a lot of time with his now fiance, which is reflected on this wedding-song-ready track.

“Every smile, every kiss, every second that I get // Every little look you give me like that // Every night, every day, every memory that we make // Baby, you ain’t even gotta ask // I’ll always want another dance // Another chance to hold your hand // Yeah, from the second that we fell into each other // Knew I was never gonna ever wanna // Never ever gonna want another // Knew I was never ever gonna wanna // Never ever gonna wanna // Another smile, sleepy eyes, waking up right next to me // A million more just like last night // You and me on repeat”

One of the album’s immediate standouts is “Where Country Music Comes From,” a slow-burning countrified ballad about the inspirations behind our favorite country songs. “I think I know what King George was singing ‘bout,” He muses. “Guys like me, girls like you // That’s where country music comes from // Stars like that, nights like these // Turning real life into love songs // That’s where country music comes from.”

The sole song not co-written by Doleac is “Fake Love,” a dreamy duet with Danielle Bradbery penned by HARDY, Ryan Hurd, Maren Morris, and Jordan Schmidt. On the destined-to-be-a-wedding song track, the pair trade verses about a love that’s anything from fake. 

“This ain’t that, that ain’t us // We got truth, we got trust // You know that it’s the real thing // When it wraps its arms around you,” they sing. “I’ve been there, down that road // Trying to feel something I don’t // But it’s been fading in the rearview since the moment that I found you // Now I get it, you can make it // You can fall in it // But you can’t just // Fake love”

While Doleac can slow things down with the best of them, it’s not all ballads on his debut. “Drinkin’ It Wrong” is a fun how-to manual for a good time, while “Close That Tab” is an uber-clever lyrical break-up song. “That’s a breakup-with-your-shitty boyfriend song,” Doleac says with a laugh. “I think a lot of people date the wrong person. And when they do, they do it for like six months too long!” Here, he asks “Why you wanna spend another happy hour sad?,” reminding a girl that her current beau is nothing more than “a watered down vodka soda.”

On “Holy Jeans,” he sings an ode to a pair of ripped jeans he can’t help but admire, while “Hey Drink,” offers another clever lyric, wondering if a drink could have an effect on his ex like it does him. “Why can’t you make her miss me // The way that I miss her?” He asks. “Why can’t you make her wanna // Show up at my front door // Make her think what she had is all she needs // Hey drink, why can’t you work on her // The way you work on me?”

“Neon Fools” and “What Kinda Night” are other songs that show Doleac’s fun side, with the latter finding him wondering where a night will take him.

“Do you wanna get way gone or tipsy // A glass of wine or a shot of whiskey // Call your friends, tell ‘em all we’re busy // What kinda night, what kinda night // Which way do ya wanna take it // How far do you wanna go, yeah // How late do you wanna make it // Girl, I gotta know // Are you a night to remember // Night to forget // Best night of my life that hadn’t happened yet”

“I spend a lot of time wondering if I’m doing life right, and think others do that, too,” Doleac explains in a statement. “That’s kind of what this whole era leading up to this record has been like, just trying to figure it out. But now I know. What I want people to hear is the first full idea of what Adam Doleac sounds like. I want people to hear it and think ‘That’s the sound, that’s him.’”

For Adam Doleac, Barstool Whiskey Wonderland may be his debut album, but it’s a solid body of work that is sure to establish him as one of country music’s most consistent and talented singer-songwriters.

Adam Doleac – Barstool Whiskey Wonderland Track List:

  1. Don’t It Sound Alright (Adam Doleac/Josh Jenkins/Chris La Corte)
  2. Where Country Music Comes From (Adam Doleac/Eric Arjes/Chris Gelbuda)
  3. Barstool Whiskey Wonderland (Adam Doleac/Lindsay Rimes/Jonathan Singleton)
  4. Drinkin’ It Wrong (Adam Doleac/Cary Barlowe/Jordan)
  5. Close That Tab (Adam Doleac/Zach Abend/Derrick Southerland)
  6. Til Dawn Do Us Part (Adam Doleac/Rian Ball/Ben Caver)
  7. Fake Love feat. Danielle Bradbery (HARDY/Ryan Hurd/Maren Morris/Jordan Schmidt)
  8. Fast Asleep (Adam Doleac/Jon Nite/Jordan Schmidt)
  9. Another (Adam Doleac/Kyle Jacobs/Trannie Anderson)
  10. Girl in Love (Adam Doleac/Jared Keim/Derrick Southerland)
  11. Hey Drink (Adam Doleac/Paul DiGiovanni/John Pierce)
  12. Way Over You (Adam Doleac/Michael Carlisle/Frank Legeay)
  13. Holy Jeans (Adam Doleac/Ben Simonetti/Fred Wilhelm)
  14. Somewhere Cool with You (Adam Doleac/Josh Jenkins/Matt Jenkins/Jared Keim
  15. What Kinda Night (Adam Doleac/Chris DeStefano/Josh Osborne)
  16. Coulda Loved You Longer (Adam Doleac/Casey Brown/Jesse Lee Levin)
  17. Neon Fools (Adam Doleac/Thomas Finchum/Andy Skib)
  18. Famous (Adam Doleac/Bobby Hamrick/Andy Skib)

Country Swag Picks:

  1. Barstool Whiskey Wonderland
  2. Close That Tab
  3. Where Country Music Comes From
  4. What Kinda Night
Adam-doleac-debut-album

Adam Doleac’s debut album, ‘Barstool Whiskey Wonderland’ is out now.

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

For more information and tour dates, visit Adam Doleac’s official website.

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

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

Georgia Webster: ‘Chapter 1: Things We’re Not Saying’ – EP Review

/in , , , /by

Georgia Webster’s EP, Chapter 1: Things We’re Not Saying, is out now, September 23rd on all streaming platforms. Listen to the brand new project below and check out our full review.

Georgia Webster is pure honesty and talent. Her debut EP, First Goodbye was full of songs she wrote by herself during high school. Today, she is displaying a more mature side of herself with songs she co-wrote in Nashville. Her EP, Chapter 1: Things We’re Not Saying” is officially here.

Keeping with the thread of honesty and personal touches, each of the six songs on the EP still feels ripped straight from Webster’s diary. According to the songstress, “These were some of my first co-writes ever and I’m honored to have gotten to work with Josh Kerr and everyone else on the project!” Webster also expressed excitement over being invited to tour with Kelsea Ballerini on her intimate, ‘HEARTFIRST Tour.’ “I also can’t believe that I get to tour with one of my favorite artists in country music. To be able to tour with and learn from Kelsea is a dream come true.”

We are sure fans will be excited to hear these songs on the upcoming tour. Beginning with the recently released 1-2 punch, “I Hate Phone Calls (Long Distance Sucks)” and “Risk,” Webster puts her feelings out there. On the former, the singer-songwriter expresses how hard long-distance  relationships truly are. On, “Risk” featuring Jonathan Hutcherson, Webster’s vocals (and feelings) are on full display. One of our favorites on the project, the song portrays how it feels to end a relationship without any resentment.

“I guess it’s the risk that you take // That your heart’s gonna break when it’s over // And lately I’ve been wondering // If the hurt was with getting to know ya // For all of our good times // I’m spending my nights // Crying alone in my bedroom // I guess it’s the risk that you take // When you love someone like I loved you”

On the contrary, on “X’s,” Webster shares how it feels to be heartbroken. The all-to-relatable tune went viral on TikTok for its likability and catchy hook. The singer cleverly weaves the song lyrics to mean different things, referring to both exes and x’s on her hands. It makes for an enticing and fun song; despite, the melancholy lyric. Another one of our favorites, “John Mayer Songs” showcases clever wordplay too. The singer drops John Mayer song titles throughout the expressive new song.

Webster continues to convey her truth through the last two songs on the record, “Not Sayin'” and “Tattoos.” On “Not Sayin,'” the singer explores the beginnings of a possible relationship. Finally, on “Tattoos,” Webster returns home to her quiet, diary-like nature of her major-label debut. Another standout, “Tattoos” is all about her first love and first heartache.

“You were my // first kiss, first love, first drink, first drunk // first pick-up truck where I said that I loved you // First on my skin, where I almost did // Thank god I never went with you // Thank god we never got tattoos // Thank god we never got tattoos”

With her new EP, Chapter 1: Things We’re Not Saying, Webster secures her spot as this generation’s relatable queen. Much like Taylor Swift’s hold on millennials, Webster has the ability to do the same thing with her honest and relatable lyrics. This EP is only just the beginning for the future superstar.

Georgia Webster – Chapter 1: Things We’re Not Saying EP Tracklist:

  1. I Hate Phone Calls (Long Distance Sucks)
  2. Risk feat. Jonathan Hutcherson
  3. X’s
  4. John Mayer Songs
  5. Not Sayin’
  6. Tattoos
georgia-webster-new-ep

Georgia Webster’s new ep, ‘Chapter 1: Things We’re Not Saying’ is out now.

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

To keep up with Georgia Webster, follow her on Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter. 

Chapter 1: Things We’re Not Saying 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.

kelsea-ballerini-number-ones

Here is Kelsea Ballerini’s New Album: ‘Subject to Change’

/in , , , /by

Kelsea Ballerini’s brand new album, Subject to Change is out now, September 23rd on all streaming platforms. Listen to the full album below.

Country music megastar, Kelsea Ballerini is officially debuting her highly anticipated fourth studio album entitled: Subject to Change. The fifteen-song project is a pop-country masterpiece. Ballerini continues to evolve as both an artist and as a person with each new release.

Throughout Subject to Change, the singer-songwriter collaborates with artists like Kelly Clarkson and Carly Pearce on the incredible song, “You’re Drunk, Go Home.” She enlists songwriting and production help from greats like Julian Bunetta, Shane McAnally, Alysa Vanderheym, and Jesse Frasure. Ballerini knows how to cultivate an incredible project that her fans are sure to fall in love with.

As the singer’s personal life and professional life evolve, one thing is for certain, her intimate, 10-date ‘HEARTFIRST Tour‘ with Georgia Webster is not to be missed!

Listen to the brand new album below!

Kelsea Ballerini – Subject to Change Track List:

  1.  “Subject To Change”
  2. “The Little Things”
  3. “I Can’t Help Myself”
  4. “If You Go Down” (I’m Goin’ Down Too)
  5. “Love Is a Cowboy”
  6. “Muscle Memory”
  7. “I Guess They Call It Fallin’”
  8. “Weather”
  9. “Universe”
  10. “Walk in the Park”
  11. “Heartfirst”
  12. “You’re Drunk, Go Home” ft. Kelly Clarkson & Carly Pearce
  13. “Doin’ My Best”
  14. “Marilyn”
  15. “What I Have”
kelsea-ballerini-new-album

Kelsea Ballerini’s brand new album “Subject to Change” is out now.

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

To keep up with Kelsea Ballerini, follow her on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

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

Madeline-merlo-ep-slide

Madeline Merlo: ‘Slide’ – EP Review

/in , , , /by

Madeline Merlo’s new EP, Slide, is out now, September 23rd on all streaming platforms. Listen to the brand new project below and check out our full review.

Canadian star, Madeline Merlo is ready to make her name and talent known in the American country music landscape. After winning her episode of the songwriting show, Songland, the singer-songwriter knew she had what it took to up the ante. Today, Merlo drops her new EP, simply titled, Slide.

In just four songs, the songstress manages to showcase her songwriting chops and her killer vocals. The title track, written by Merlo with Zach Crowell, Jerry Flowers, and Sam Hunt is our first taste of the record. Although originally developed for Hunt, the writers knew the song would be better from a woman’s perspective. Merlo was clearly the right woman for the job.

“Baby I don’t care // It’s me and you, either way,// Let’s watch the night slide into yesterday”

The singer continues to share female stories throughout the EP. On “YOUNG-ish,” Merlo stakes her claim in her womanhood – encouraging all of us to challenge the misconception that everyone’s path should be the same. An anthemic track, Merlo delivers it just as well as anyone in the industry could.

On our favorite song off the project, “Girl Where He Grew Up,” the singer shares an all-too-relatable story about being the girl before the guy gets his stuff together. We all know what it feels like to be the girl before the next. “Girl Where He Grew Up” is a story about teaching a guy how to love his next girlfriend better.

“You can thank me if that boy knows how to love // I’m the girl where he grew up // I bet out of the blue, he tells you you’re pretty // I bet he checks in when he’s out late with his buddy // I bet his eyes don’t wander when he’s drinking a whisky // Yeah he learned it the hard way, the moment he lost me”

The record wraps up with the final song on the project, “I Need A Drink.” Written by the singer with incredible songwriters, Zach Crowell, Ashley Gorley, and Hillary Lindsey, the song is all about the hope we feel when we meet a new love interest. The song is pure, honest, and catchy.

Merlo knocks it out of the park with her Slide EP. Each and every song is methodically placed. It is the perfect introduction for new fans and audiences in American country music.

Madeline Merlo – Slide EP Tracklist:

  1. “Slide” (Madeline Merlo, Zach Crowell, Jerry Flowers, Sam Hunt)
  2.  “YOUNG-ish” (Madeline Merlo, Zach Crowell, Josh Osborne, Jerry Flowers)
  3. “Girl Where He Grew Up” (Madeline Merlo, Nathan Chapman, Jon Nite)
  4. “I Need A Drink” (Madeline Merlo, Zach Crowell, Ashley Gorley, Hillary Lindsey)
Madeline-merlo-slide-ep

Madeline Merlo’s brand new EP, ‘Slide’ is out now.

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

To keep up with Madeline Merlo, follow her on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok or Twitter. 

Slide 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.

maddie-and-tae-vol-2-ep

Maddie & Tae: ‘Through the Madness, Vol 2’ – EP Review

/in , , , /by

Maddie & Tae’s new EP, Through the Madness, Vol 2 , out now, September 23rd on all streaming platforms. Listen to the brand new project below and check out our full review.

Just nine months after the January release of their EP, Through the Madness, Volume 1, Maddie & Tae are back with its younger sister, Volume 2. Like on Volume 1, the Mercury Nashville pair co-wrote all of the collection’s eight tracks while also enlisting some of Nashville’s biggest names, including Ryan Hurd, Josh Thompson, Jessie Jo Dillon, Jimmy Robbins, and Josh Kerr.

As the gold standard in women’s country harmonies, the duo only further solidifies that position with each subsequent release, and Volume 2 is no exception. Here, they continue to do what they do best: weave classic country storytelling with intrinsic harmonies.

While both Maddie Font and Taylor (Tae) Kerr are happily married, they shine when they’re channeling heartbreak. This is apparent on songs like “These Tears,” “Drinking to Remember,” “Watching Love Leave,” and “Well in Your World.”

“Well in Your World” deals with the pair wondering what happened to a high school sweetheart. The radio-ready mid-tempo finds them in a conundrum of not necessarily missing someone but wondering what happened to them. “I’d be lying if I said I missed you // But I’d be lying if I said you never crossed my mind, sometimes,” They admit. “We’re a thousand miles away from who we were // When we were just a boy and a girl // I hope all is well in your world.”

“These Tears” is a sparse and stunning ballad, the pair harmonizing over simple acoustic and steel guitars, vulnerabilities on full display. “These tears, should’ve been cried long ago,” They sing mournfully, heartbreak evident in every note. “All these years of hanging on is getting old // So I’m letting go. I can’t keep them from falling down // I guess I’m crying them now.” 

On “Drinking to Remember,” the pair puts a clever lyrical twist on the idea of drowning one’s sorrows at the bottom of a glass. While most drink to forget, Maddie & Tae are drinking to remember a lost love. “A love like ours is too good to forget,” They muse over a glass of his favorite whiskey. “So I’m drinking to remember.”

In a similar vein, both “Girl After My Own Heart” and “More Than Maybe” are absolute masterpieces, taking classic tropes and turning them on their heads. “Girl After My Own Heart” has the pair warning another woman to stay away from their man. While they can admit that this other woman is “rocking that dress,” she’s “wasting her time wanting what’s mine.” Meanwhile, “More Than Maybe,” has them realizing that a guy in their life isn’t truly reciprocating their love. “How many times can a girl’s heart break?” They ask. “I deserve more than maybe.”

“Every Night Every Morning” is one of the album’s happier moments, telling the tale of falling in love over and over again. Here, they weave patented harmonies over a twangy country melody. “Every night and every morning I fall all over again and again,” They admit on the romantic ballad. “And you don’t even know it // Baby, if you’re wondering when you hold me // If I still feel forever, only Every night and every morning.”

The EP ends with “Spring Cleaning,” an infectiously sassy kick-off tune, laced with hints of 90’s country and inspirations like the Chicks, Gretchen Wilson, and Miranda Lambert. The pair channel their inner Marie Kondo, whom they mention on the track, getting rid of someone who no longer sparks joy in their lives. 

“Ooh, you’re taking up space // It’s time to tidy up and take you out my brain // Ooh, what do you see? Cleaning out the closet looks good on me // It ain’t spring, but I’m cleaning house // It ain’t spring, but I’m cleaning out // It ain’t spring, but I’m cleaning house // So, come and get your shit out”

Like Through the Madness Volume 1, this second collection continues to show Maddie & Tae growing and evolving, while also managing to do what they do best. It’s a must-listen for any country music fan, and when listening to the volumes back-to-back, it’s sixteen tracks of harmonic musical bliss.

Through the Madness, Volume 2 EP Tracklist:

  1. “Well In Your World” (Maddie Font, Taylor Kerr, Ryan Hurd, Jimmy Robbins)^ 
  2. “Every Night Every Morning” (Maddie Font, Taylor Kerr, Jonathan Singleton, Brock Berryhill)^ 
  3. “Drinking To Remember” (Maddie Font, Taylor Kerr, Benjy Davis, Daniel Ross)^ 
  4. “Girl After My Own Heart” (Maddie Font, Taylor Kerr, Matt Dragstrem, Josh Thompson)^ 
  5. “Watching Love Leave” (Maddie Font, Taylor Kerr, Benjy Davis, Daniel Ross)^ 
  6. “More Than Maybe” (Maddie Font, Taylor Kerr, Jessie Jo Dillon, Jimmy Robbins)^ 
  7. “These Tears” (Maddie Font, Taylor Kerr, Laura Veltz, Jon Green)* 
  8. “Spring Cleaning” (Maddie Font, Taylor Kerr, Josh Kerr, Tayla Parx)
maddie-tae-new-ep-vol-2-volume

Maddie & Tae’s brand new EP, ‘Through the Madness, Vol 2’ is out now.

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

The duo are currently headlining CMT’s Next Women of Country Tour.

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

Through the Madness Volume 2 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.

callista-clark-new-song

Callista Clark Shares New Song “Brave Girl”

/in , , /by

Callista Clark’s new song, “Brave Girl,” is out now, September 16th, on all streaming platforms. Listen to the brand new, personal track below.

Last year we introduced you to then, seventeen year old singer-songwriter, Callista Clark. Today, we are bringing you her newest single, “Brave Girl.” A true gem of a song, Clark is probing her talent one song at a time, as we anticipate her album Real To Me: The Way I Feel coming out next month.

Written by Clark, the empowering new track is an anthem for women and young girls everywhere. The song implores listeners to know their worth, embrace their qualities, and conquer their fears. Clark is clearly writing from a real life perspective, as she tackles her own womanhood, as an eighteen year old artist.

“Brave girl // Sitting in the back of the class, afraid to raise your hand // Brave girl // Straighten the curls like the other girls, you don’t want to stand out // You’re learn to love the pieces of your messy broken heart // And all the things you think you’re hate that make you who you are”

Clark is a talented, wise beyond her years artist. We look forward to seeing how fans continue to fall in love with her and her music.

Callista-Clark-new-song

Callista Clark’s new song, “Brave Girl” is out now, ahead of album coming this October.

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

To keep up with Callista Clark, follow her on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

“Brave Girl” 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.

Ashley-cooke-new-song

Ashley Cooke Shares Personal New Song “Back In The Saddle”

/in , , /by

Ashley Cooke’s new song, “Back In The Saddle,” is out now, September 16th, on all streaming platforms. Listen to the brand new, personal track below.

One of our favorite rising artists, Ashley Cooke’s star continues to rise with each and every release. She released her single, “getting into,” last month, and now she is adding another single to her growing catalog. Cooke’s new song, “Back In The Saddle” is officially out now.

The new song was written by Jordan Minton, Josh Kerr, and Jordan Reynolds. Although the track was written by three men, it is hard to imagine anyone other than Cooke singing it and bringing it to life. Lyrically, “Back In The Saddle,” is an anthem for anyone who is having a tough time dealing with a break-up. It provides hope and relatability throughout the lyrics.

“Getting back in the saddle // Putting boots in the gravel // leaving her memory in an ole dust cloud // You ditching this missing him merry go round // Baby what we say // We been drinking and we ain’t // Trying to ride off into the sunset // No this is just and me trying to forget // Getting back in the saddle”

While it is hard to choose a favorite Cooke song, “Back In The Saddle” is definitely a top contender!

Ashley-cooke-back-in-the-saddle-new-song

Ashley Cooke’s new song, “Back In The Saddle” is out now.

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

To keep up with Ashley Cooke, follow her on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

“Back In The Saddle” 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.

little-big-town-mr-sun-album

Little Big Town: ‘Mr. Sun’ – Album Review

/in , , , /by

Little Big Town’s brand new album, Mr. Sun is out now, September 16th on all streaming platforms. Take a listen and read our full review below.

In January 2020, Little Big Town released their stellar album, Nightfall. The foursome then kicked off a tour at New York’s Carnegie Hall and the famous Apollo Theater, and then… the world shut down.

Now, two and a half years later, the group responsible for the best vocal harmonies in country music are back with something that manages to be both different yet familiar.

Featuring sixteen new tracks, the group’s tenth studio album, Mr. Sun, was self-produced by the fantastic four members of Little Big Town. It features thirteen tracks co-written by at least one member of the band, and a total of 33 songwriters, including Sara Buxton, Tyler Hubbard, Hillary Lindsey, Lori McKenna, Liz Rose, Shane McAnally, Josh Osborne, and many more.

Written predominantly during the pandemic, Mr. Sun shows Little Big Town at its absolute best. They sample new sounds while remaining true to the vocal harmonies that have endeared them to fans for over their twenty year career, allowing oft-frontwoman Karen Fairchild to shine, but they also provide moments for each other band member to have a moment in the spotlight. They provide a stellar mix of radio-ready tracks with deeper cuts full of melody and meaning.

That clever juxtaposition of tracks happens almost immediately, the album kicking off with the previously-released “All Summer,” “Better Love,” and “Hell Yeah,” before transitioning into more poignant moments on “Mr. Sun” and “Three Whiskeys and the Truth.”

“All Summer” is a blistering ode to summer love, led by Karen Fairchild’s sultry vocals over an almost 70’s-inspired melody, while “Better Love” is a smooth mid-tempo that finds her with no regrets over a failed relationship, but looking for something better next time around. These lead directly into the cleverly phrased “Hell Yeah,” which allows Philip Sweet to take the lead.

“Hell yeah, I go get drunk on Friday nights // Hell yeah, I’m dancing under neon lights // Hell yeah, I’m smiling so that you can’t tell // But if you’re ever wondering, baby if I’m still // Going through hell, yeah // Going through hell, yeah // You’ve moved on and I’m still here in hell, yeah”

Jimi Westbrook is frontman on “Mr. Sun,” which one would assume might be a party song from the title, but is actually the total opposite. In fact, the song offers a clever nod at the Bill Withers classic, “Ain’t No Sunshine,” with Westbrook crooning, “You don’t need to shine, ‘cause she’s gone away.” On the somber R&B-tinted tune, the soulful singer shines his brightest, despite being in the mood for “something dark and stormy.”

Heartbreak may be where LBT shines brightest, allowing mournful harmonies to set the mood on tracks like “Three Whiskeys and the Truth” and “One More Song,” On the latter, Fairchild and Westbrook deal with a breakup, trading verses in the vein of one of the band’s most underrated songs, “Your Side of the Bed.” Meanwhile, on the former, Fairchild’s smoky voice tells the heart-wrenching time of love lost, nearly breaking with emotion on the second-half of the song. “Takes every bit of the time that I’m killing // My heart hesitates but the pain’s always willing,” She admits. “There ain’t no lying // Baby I’m missing you // Three whiskeys and the truth.”

It’s not all stormy weather on Mr. Sun, as the breezy and Abba-inspired “Heaven Had a Dance Floor” finds Kimberley Schlapman channeling her inner disco queen. Likewise, “Whiskey Colored Eyes” has an almost Eagles-like feel, elevated by the foursome’s harmonies. Finally, the sass-meter is turned up to ten on “Song Back,” an 80’s groove-inspired song about a song ruined by the end of a relationship. “If you’re gonna play me like that,” Fairchild scorches. “I want my song back.”

The later half of the album focuses heavily on reflection, with songs like “Rich Man,” “God Fearing Gypsies,” “Last Day on Earth,” and the album’s final track, “Friends of Mine.” 

“Rich Man” offers a poignant moment of reflection, as they grapple with the fact that one can be wealthy “without a lick of money.” 

“Yeah, in my soul, one thing I know // I ain’t lookin’ for a pot of gold // That ain’t what this life means to me // I keep my head up high, feet on the ground // Love the ones I’m livin’ ’round // Life is just that simple to me // Yeah, I’m a rich man”

Additionally, “God Fearing Gypsies” finds the quartet slowing things down for another introspective moment on the harmonic highlight. The song is led by Westbrook, but soars with the patented harmonies that make LBT the best vocal group in music today. “Long live the God-fearing gypsies,” They sing, “Who live as hard as they pray.”

“Last Day on Earth” is a sparse and folksy ballad that has the foursome harmonizing without a clear lead vocalist, showing them at their absolute best. In fact, we can already picture all four members of LBT highlighting this track with their voices, a spotlight, and a guitar, during an acoustic section of their live shows.

Finally, “Friends of Mine” is one of the album’s most moving moments, almost sounding as a message to their fans and to each other. On the soulful, Gospel-tinged tune, they tackle the uncertainty of the world we live in, offering a moment of hope in the darkness. “Everyone knows that in life sometimes, the wind blows the rain in your eyes,” They sing. “It’s a crazy world // we’re all trying to live in // We all feel alone and afraid…“We all need each other to get through the darkest of times.” 

As one of country music’s most consistent band of music-makers, Little Big Town continues to shine on Mr. Sun, offering listeners a bright spot through even the darkest of days.

Little Big Town – Mr. Sun Track List:

  1. All Summer (Karen Fairchild, Sarah Buxton, Madi Diaz, Ashley Ray, Savana Santos, Alysa Vanderheym)
  2. Better Love (Karen Fairchild, Jimi Westbrook, Tofer Brown, Audra Mae)
  3. Hell Yeah (Phillip Sweet, Jimi Westbrook, Corey Crowder, Tyler Hubbard)
  4. Mr. Sun (Sarah Buxton, Daniel Tashian)
  5. Three Whiskeys and the Truth (Karen Fairchild, Kimberly Schlapman, Hillary Lindsey, Lori McKenna, Liz Rose)
  6. One More Song (Tofer Brown, Sean McConnell)
  7. Heaven Had a Dance Floor (Karen Fairchild, Phillip Sweet, Jimi Westbrook, Cary Barlowe, Jesse Frasure)
  8. Gold (Karen Fairchild, Jimi Westbrook, Trent Dabbs, Luke Dick)
  9. Rich Man (Jimi Westbrook)
  10. God Fearing Gypsies (Karen Fairchild, Nicolette Hayford, Ashley Ray)
  11. Different Without You (Corey Crowder, Jared Mullins, Steven Lee Olsen, Jordan Schmidt)
  12. Whiskey Colored Eyes (Karen Fairchild, Kimberly Schlapman, Phillip Sweet, Jimi Westbrook, Shane McAnally, Josh Osborne)
  13. Song Back (Karen Fairchild, Jimi Westbrook, Todd Clark, Sara Haze, Jason Saenz)
  14. Something Strong (Karen Fairchild, Kimberly Schlapman, Hillary Lindsey, Lori McKenna, Liz Rose)
  15. Last Day On Earth (Karen Fairchild, Trent Dabbs, Tommy English)
  16. Friends of Mine (Karen Fairchild, Kimberly Schlapman, Phillip Sweet, Jimi Westbrook, Foy Vance)

Country Swag Picks: 

  1. God Fearing Gypsies
  2. Song Back
  3. Friends of Mine
  4. Better Love
  5. Hell Yeah
little-big-town-album

Little Big Town’s new album, ‘Mr. Sun’ is out now.

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

To keep up with Little Big Town, follow them on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

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

Dylan-schneider-new-song

Dylan Schneider Drops Brand New Song “Ain’t Missin’ You”

/in , , /by

Dylan Schneider’s new song, “Ain’t Missin’ You,” is out now, September 16th, on all streaming platforms. Listen to the brand new, personal track below.

A little over a year ago, we introduced you to rising singer-songwriter, Dylan Schneider. The eclectic country singer continues to impress us with his music, leaning into his wide variety of musical influences. Today, he drops one of our favorite songs of his to date, “Ain’t Missin’ You.”

The new single is the song that every broken-hearted girl wants to hear. Right away, the track kicks off with piercing lyrics of the new guy wishing the worst on the guy who broke her heart.

“I hope it hurts // I hope you’re mad // I hope you think that girl is the best you ever had // I hope you’re drunk // And it don’t help // I hope you spent the last few months feeling sorry for yourself // Guys like you don’t get second chances, no // Girls like her ain’t meant for loving and letting go”

Keep your eyes and ears open for Schneider! He is winning the hearts of fans everywhere with his enticing social media presence and his incredible talent.

Dylan-schneider-new-song

Dylan Shneider’s new song “Ain’t Missin’ You” is out now.

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

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

“Ain’t Missin’ You” 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.