Willie Lock’s brand new debut album, West Side Stories is out now, November 30th, on all streaming platforms. Listen to the brand-new record below.
We love supporting our local New York artists like Willie Lock. The singer-songwriter is as talented as they come. Today, Lock releases his debut album, West Side Stories, which showcases his talent across ten new song for fans to fallen love with.
The new record features songs like “When Were 17” and “My Brother.” Both songs speak to Lock’s prowess as a story-teller. The former evokes nostalgia and memories, while “My Brother” is a poignant, yet personal song about losing someone you love too soon. Additionally one of our new favorites on the record, “Drinking About” shows off Lock’s more fun and cheeky side. The song is primed for a live show.
Lock knows a thing or two about evoking emotion in his listeners. He has the talent and charisma that we love to champion in a rising act. Learn more about the project and listen to the brand new music below.
West Side Stories Tracklist:
West Side
Drinking About
When We Were 17
College Town
My Brother
Bad Things
Other Side
Chinatown Bus
I’m On Fire
My Brother (Acoustic)
WIllie Lock shares his debut album, ‘West Side Stories,’ out now on all streaming platforms.
Fans can join our Weekly Round-Up e-newsletter here, for the latest in country music and more news about future Willie Lock releases.
West Side Stories 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/2023/11/willie-lock-debut-album.jpg6301200Erica Zismanhttps://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/logo-new-cs-white.pngErica Zisman2023-11-30 18:00:122023-11-30 18:10:50Here Is Willie Lock’s Debut Album ‘West Side Stories’
Tanner Usrey releases his brand new album, Crossing Lines, out now, November 17th on all streaming platforms. Listen to the brand new project here.
With a soulful voice and confessional lyrical style, country newcomer Tanner Usrey is sure to make a splash with his debut album, Crossing Lines. Out now, the singer-songwriter’s Atlantic Records debut combines country, southern rock, Americana, and hints of soul with an uncanny vulnerability to reveal an artist on the ride.
For the Texas native, songwriting is his key to success. “I let the songs be what they’re going to be, and I pride myself on that,” he reveals in a statement. “Musically, it ranges from southern rock to country to Americana. When it comes to songwriting, I want to focus on what’s real – I don’t shy away from saying the hard things.”
The album truly takes listeners on a journey, dealing with Usrey’s demons, self-acceptance, Texas upbringing, and love stories. “I hope you hear what you want to hear, enjoy it, resonate with it, and know it’s real,” he shares. “It’s been a wild ride. I’ve busted my ass. I started off doing all of this on my own, so it’s crazy to see how this and the team around me have grown. People are going after real music right now, and that’s great. I’m looking forward to seeing where it goes next.”
The album opens with the swampy and stompy “Echo in the Holler,” full of banjos, bugs, howls and harmonicas. It’s reminiscent of Marc Broussard’s “Home,” and immediately sets the stage for the LP. It’s a one two-punch between “Echo” and the album’s second track, “Guns Drugs and Allergy Pills,” which finds him longing to “make it back to Texas before I go insane.” It’s a rousing uptempo with driving guitars and twinkling pianos that make it a full on rockabilly country jam that is sure to electrify live audiences.
Crossing Lines also includes two versions of Usrey’s breakout track, “Beautiful Lies,” with a new version reimagined as a duet with Ella Langley. On the stunning ballad, the pair trade verses about a relationship that has reached its end, but they’re still holding on. “So talk to me, tell me what I need to hear // Wrap me up with your beautiful lies // And I know you’re leavin’, yeah, you’re standing at that door // And I can see the heartbreak in your eyes // So keep on telling me those beautiful lies.”
The sparse “Make You Weep” and the bittersweet “Last Goodbye” with Gracie York are both powerful and heart wrenching moments, with the latter finding the pair knowing they shouldn’t be together, determined to end things, no matter how much it hurts. On the barebones ballad, they trade verses about spending one last night together before saying goodbye, singing “Let’s make the best of our last goodbye.”
“Take Me Home Tonight” is a single-ready midtempo, finding him “way too damn drunk to drive,” as he muses over how his relationship started and where it is currently. “Got a baby on the way and a dog in the yard // We started out small but we sure came far //Yeah I just wanna be where you are.”
Usrey deals with his own demons on tracks like “Down Here at the Bottom,” “Pick Up Your Phone,” “Who I Am,” and “Crossing Lines.” Each of the tracks address his struggles with alcohol, as he muses, “Down here at the bottom ain’t as bad as it seems” and confesses “I woke up on the floor again, sweating poison from my veins, I don’t know what I’ve become, but I know that it’s something that I hate.” On the title track, he finds himself an imposter in his own life, the cheerful music a stark contrast to the lyrics. “I’m getting tired of making excuses // While my mother keeps on praying to Jesus // That I make a change from my wicked ways // But I keep on doing all the same damn things.”
One thing Usrey does incredibly well is tint his music with various genres. For example, the biting “Black Widow” offers another stomping hint of rock and soul, as Usrey proclaims “I ain’t in your web no more, baby I ain’t your fool.” Meanwhile, “Destiny” hints at a Gospel revival, featuring female background vocals for a show stopping moment. “Give It Some Time” has notes of anthemic 90’s alternative, sounding akin to some of the best acts from that period as it builds to an emotionally charged guitar solo that’s as scorching as his delivery.
With an incredibly powerful voice that can be best likened to powerhouses like Chris Stapleton, Nate Smith or Larry Fleet, Tanner Usrey was bound to be a star. Pair that voice with incredible songwriting, unique stylistic choices and unparalleled musicianship, and Crossing Lines is an absolutely stellar debut album.
Crossing Lines Tracklist:
Echo In The Holler
Guns Drugs & Allergy Pills
Take Me Home
Pick Up Your Phone
Crossing Lines
Who I Am
Give It Some Time
Beautiful Lies (feat. Ella Langley)
Last Goodbye
Black Widow
Make You Weep
Destiny
Evelyn’s Eyes (feat. Jessi England)
Down Here At The Bottom
Beautiful Lies
Country Swag Picks:
Beautiful Lies
Take Me Home
Give It Some Time
Who I Am
Last Goodbye
Tanner Usrey’s debut album, ‘Crossing Lines,’ out now on all streaming platforms.
Fans can join our Weekly Round-Up e-newsletter here, for the latest in country music and more news about future Tanner Usrey releases.
For tour dates and more, visit the singer-songwriter’s website here.
Crossing Lines 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.
Wyatt Flores releases his brand new project, Life Lessons, out now, November 17th on all streaming platforms. Listen to the new music here.
With a voice and style way beyond his 22 years, country newcomer Wyatt Flores is garnering quite a buzz for his country-folk stylings. Much like Zach Bryan and Noah Kahan, Flores uses an emotive voice, poetic lyrics, and his guitar to fill his songs with the type of magical X-factor that’s not quite describable.
Today, the Oklahoma native released his latest project, Life Lessons. On the seven song collection, the young singer-songwriter sounds like a seasoned vet, telling tales of life in Stillwater, OK. He manages to add an uncanny maturity to his youthful take on life, while still sharing the trappings of his life thus far.
”I’m so excited to put these stories of my life into y’all’s hands. I hope that this project helps others choose a different path and one that only you can choose,” He shares in a statement. “It’s never gonna be easy and life isn’t fair but never let this world tell you how to live.”
The lyrics on the EP sum up the fact that life isn’t easy or fair, but do so in a way that’s incredibly poetic and enrapturing. “Orange Bottles” offers an especially poignant moment, beginning with a voicemail from Flores’ mother checking in, as he lyrically documents life on the road as a touring artist. “I’m so numb I can’t tell if I’m alive,” He admits. “Yeah who am I kidding? Who have I become?”
Meanwhile, “3/13” finds him apologetic and remorseful, too drunk to keep his promises as he apologizes to someone who’s always his go-to, even as he crawls from a wrecked car. “I hope you can find it in your heart to forgive me after all,” He growls, voice full of emotion. “I’m sorry you’re always my last call”
“Wildcat” is somewhat of a departure for the singer, a swinging and toe-tapping uptempo that is sure to be a crowd pleaser. Here he plants his tongue firmly in cheek as he recounts life in a “Friday Night Lights” sort of town adding a twist as not being a player on the team, but the team’s mascot. “I never was a macho man, but I made the folks laugh in the stands,” He sings playfully over the swinging melody.
On the previously-released “West of Tulsa” and “Holes,” Flores continues his confessional style with “West” finding him waking up in a new town, another face in the crowd. “’Cause I’ve been a girl’s last call when the bar’s closin’ down // I’ve been a guy on stage to the face in the crowd,” He sings. “Somethin’ ’bout wakin’ up in a cheap hotel // Makes me wanna be somebody to somebody else.”
Likewise “Life Lessons” and the project’s closing track “Astronaut” are relatively sparse, finding him looking inwards at his life, where he’s been and where he’s going. “Grandpa dropped out of school in the fifth grade // Grandma barely made it past the eighth // So maybe it’s alright if I only made it two weeks at Oklahoma state,” He muses, voice simultaneously laced with sarcasm and sincerity. “The kind of learning that I’m looking for // Ain’t written out on a whiteboard//I’m taking life lessons.”
On Life Lessons, Wyatt Flores proves that he’s one of music’s most promising young stars. With a poetic writing style and a passionate emotive voice, it’s only a matter of time before he’s a household name. Life Lessons is just the first chapter of what is sure to be an incredible journey for the young artist.
Life Lessons EP Tracklist:
Orange Bottles
Life Lessons
Wildcat
3/13
West of Tulsa
Holes
Astronaut
Country Swag Picks:
Astronaut
Wildcat
Life Lessons
Wyatt Flores shares brand new EP, ‘Life Lessons,’ out now on all streaming platforms.
Fans can join our Weekly Round-Up e-newsletter here, for the latest in country music and more news about future Wyatt Flores releases.
For tour dates and more, visit the singer-songwriter’s website here.
Life Lessons EP 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.
Lauren Watkins releases her new EP, Introducing: The Heartbreak, out now, November 17th on all streaming platforms. Listen to the brand new project here.
For country singer-songwriter Lauren Watkins, her personal highs and lows have inspired her newest release, Introducing: The Heartbreak. On her Big Loud Records / Songs & Daughters sophomore project, the follow up to April’s Introducing: Lauren Watkins, she offers a clever continuation of that debut project.
“Introducing: The Heartbreak is basically the next step in introducing myself and my music to the world,” shares Watkins in a statement. “First, I released Introducing: Lauren Watkins, which was just saying, ‘Here’s me, here’s where I came from, what I’m influenced by.’ This is the next step, going even deeper into who I am, what I’ve gone through, how I think about things. It’s truly introducing the heartbreak I’ve experienced, which will eventually roll out into something much bigger.”
Featuring six new tracks, all of which she co-wrote with heavy hitters like Nicolle Galyon, Jessie Jo Dillon, Ashley Monroe, Rodney Clawson, and more, the EP takes listeners on a journey through the end of a relationship. Produced by Joey Moi, the project takes listeners through the emotions of a heartbreak, ranging from jealousy, acceptance, denial, and blame.
The Nashville native kicks things off with “Fine County Line,” a catchy and twangy pop country tune about a will-they-won’t-they relationship. “It’s a real fine county line In between your lips and mine // This kiss I know you want it // But that fence we’re stuck here on it,” She sings. “Halfway off the map // Falling hard and walking that // Real fine county line // I think it’s ‘bout time We crossed it.”
Likewise, the uncertainty continues on “The Table,” offering a unique spin on an old phrase, as a couple ponder all of the options on the table before them. On the stirring ballad, she sings, “The way he looked at me // Halfway held my hand // Didn’t have to say a thing // For us to understand // What was on the table.”
Jealousy pairs with confusion on tracks like “Jealous of Jane” and “Fly on the Wall,” both which find the singer grappling with her emotions over not wanting someone in her life, but not completely accepting that he’s moved on. On “Fly,” she trades verses with Jake Worthington, whose pristine baritone perfectly complements her emotive twang. Meanwhile, on “Jealous of Jane,” she muses that she “don’t want him back, but I don’t want him to want her.” The track is a quintessential mid-tempo country song, full of fiddle and steel for an especially special moment.
The Ole Miss grad joins forces with Carter Faith on “Cowboys on Music Row,” which is an immediate highlight of the project. Here, the pair muse over the sorry state of today’s cowboys and country singers, longing for the days of the “redheaded stranger” or a “real rodeo man.” It’s a modern take on Paula Cole’s “Where Have All the Cowboys Gone?,” as they lament “Where oh, where oh, where did they go, There ain’t no cowboys on music row”
“We wrote ‘Cowboys On Music Row’ with our friends. Sitting around a tv, watching old videos of our old favorites. We looked at each other and thought “they really don’t make ‘em like they used to,” and this song is what followed,” Watkins shared on Instagram. “Although I’m proudly in the era of *new country* I’ll forever keep trying to make the old *Cowboys On Music Row* proud.”
Lastly, “Stuck In My Ways” finds Watkins embracing who she is. It’s a 90’s tinted celebration of all of her best qualities, take ‘em or leave ‘em. “I keep a six pack in the Fridge // And a rocking chair out back // I keep a light on, on the porch // And a key under the mat // I don’t park in that spot where you parked your Chevrolet // I ain’t sitting ‘round hoping you’ll come back someday // I’m just stuck in my ways // Yeah I’m stuck in my ways.”
For Lauren Watkins, Introducing: The Heartbreak shows that the singer-songwriter has no plans of slowing down. In fact, she’s taken a heartbreak and translated it into art.
Introducing: The Heartbreak EP Tracklist:
Fine County Line (Lauren Watkins, Rodney Clawson, Nicolle Galyon)
Jealous of Jane (Lauren Watkins, Caroline Watkins, Brad Warren, Brett Warren)
Fly On The Wall (Lauren Watkins, Andy Sheridan, Brad Warren, Brett Warren)*
Stuck In My Ways (Lauren Watkins, Will Bundy, David Garcia, Emily Landis)
Cowboys on Music Row (Lauren Watkins, Jessie Jo Dillon, Carter Faith, Lauren Hungate, Ashley Monroe, Caroline Watkins)**
The Table (Lauren Watkins, Nicolle Galyon, Brad Warren, Brett Warren)
Country Swag Picks:
Cowboys on Music Row
Stuck in My Ways
The Table
Lauren Watkins shares brand new EP, ‘Introducing: The Heartbreak,’ out now on all streaming platforms.
Fans can join our Weekly Round-Up e-newsletter here, for the latest in country music and more news about future Lauren Watkins releases.
For tour dates and more, visit the singer-songwriter’s website here.
Introducing: The Heartbreak EP 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.
https://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/lauren-watkins-ep.jpg6301200Nicole Pieringhttps://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/logo-new-cs-white.pngNicole Piering2023-11-17 01:05:262023-11-17 01:05:26Lauren Watkins: ‘Introducing: The Heartbreak’ – EP Review
Brian Kelley releases new song, “How We’re Livin'” out now, November 17th on all streaming platforms. Listen to the brand new track below.
One half of the groundbreaking country duo, Florida Georgia Line, Brian Kelley continues to build his
solo discography with his latest release, “How We’re Livin’.” Although most of his music to this point has
taken place at the beach, the Florida-native returns to the country side of his roots in this southern-rock
anthem.
Produced by Dann Huff and co-penned with Micah Carpenter, Jimmy Robbins, and Mark Trussell, this is
a classic FGL track both musically and lyrically. Backed with heavy electric guitar, pounding rhythms, and
sampled hip-hop beats, Kelley proudly embraces the small-town lifestyle and promises to keep the old school family traditions alive and well.
“‘Round here its family tradition // It’s a long, long line of lovin’ how we’re livin’ // Can’t help it it’s a country boy condition where we spend our Johnny Cash on huntin’ and fishin'”
“How We’re Livin’” is an authentic anthem celebrating family tradition and country living,” Kelley shared
in a recent press release. “Most people know my love for the beach, but I’ve been in a cowboy hat since
birth… I’m constantly inspired by everything around me, and these lyrics really do reflect a genuine
connection to my roots and what’s influencing my forthcoming debut album.”
This song follows the sentimental “Dirt Cheap” and his top 30 radio single,” “See You Next Summer.”
Kelley has a handful of shows left in 2023, including an acoustic show on Long Island at Mulcahys Pub in
Wantagh. For tickets, head to his website!
Brian Kelley shares new song, “How We’re Livin’,” out now on all streaming platforms.
Fans can join our Weekly Round-Up e-newsletter here, for the latest in country music and more news about future Brian Kelley releases.
“How We’re Livin'” 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/2023/11/brian-kelley-new-song.jpg6301200Dylan Bestlerhttps://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/logo-new-cs-white.pngDylan Bestler2023-11-17 01:04:062023-11-17 01:04:06Brian Kelley Shares Brand New Song “How We’re Livin'” Out Now
Dasha shares brand new song “Austin,” out now, November 17th, on all streaming platforms. Listen to the new track below.
Country music newcomer, Dasha is showing fans and the genre what she is all about! Her last single, “Even Cowboys Cry” showcased her sensitive side and her writing prowess. Her brand new song, out today, “Austin” puts her grit and honesty on display yet again.
Dasha’s new song, “Austin” is a mid-tempo anthem that is laced with bravado, strength, and impressive, yet relatable storytelling. Throughout the song, Dasha expresses heartbreak and a broken relationship in a way that feels empowering. The “your loss” mentality will have any listener ready to stomp their boots and dance and sing all night to the catchy track.
“Empty cans and I’ll be damned // Your shit was never packed // Did your boots stop working // Did your truck break down // Did you burn through money // Did your ex find out // Where there’s a will, there’s a way // And I’m damn sure you lost it // Didn’t even say goodbye, I just wish I knew what caused it // Was the whiskey flowing // Were you in a fight // Did the nerves come get you // what’s your alibi / I made my way back to LA // That’s where you’ll be forgotten // in 40 years, you’ll still be here // Drunk, washed-up in Austin”
Dasha is proving herself to be one to look out for. Her unique style, storytelling, and tempos make for an enticing artist. We look forward to seeing what Dasha has coming down the pipeline next!
Dasha shares new song, “Austin,” out now on all streaming platforms.
Fans can join our Weekly Round-Up e-newsletter here, for the latest in country music and more news about future Dasha releases.
“Austin” 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/2023/11/dUQfYVoh.jpeg13652048Erica Zismanhttps://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/logo-new-cs-white.pngErica Zisman2023-11-17 01:03:052023-11-20 13:48:37Dasha Shares Brand New Song “Austin” Out Now
The Frontmen release their brand new EP, Familiar Faces, out now, November 17th on all streaming platforms. Listen to the brand new project here.
Back in March, The Frontmen officially signed with BMG/BBR Music Group. The trio comprised of Richie McDonald (formerly of Lonestar), Tim Rushlow (formerly of Little Texas), and Larry Stewart (Restless Heart), are absolute veterans in the country music industry. Combining their talents into an exciting act is exactly what we all needed. Today, The Frontmen release their brand new EP entitled Familiar Faces.
The brand new project boasts six songs including, The Frontmen editions of famed songs, “I”ll Still Be Loving You,” “God Blessed Texas,” and “Amazed.” On both “I’ll Still Be Loving You” and “Amazed” The Frontmen breathe new life into the already classic songs. On “God Blessed Texas,” they prime a song that is fun and made for the live show. High-energy and uptempo, the song is hard not to sing and dance along to, even after just one listen.
Familiar Faces’ tracklist also has three new songs. “I Need You” is a familiar mid-tempo song that pays homage to the early 00’s country landscape that we all still feel nostalgic about. On “It Was Always You,” The Frontmen bring their iconic voices to centerstage. The song feels reminiscent and like coming home upon listening. It also feels stage-ready, clearly something that The Frontmen seemingly know a thing or two about. Additionally, “Left Their Mark” tells a poignant story. It touches the edges of sacrifice, losing someone you love, and the incredible military men and women who put their lives on the line each and everyday for all of us.
The Frontmen truly have something special with their Familiar Faces EP. Each of the six songs speak to the legacy that these three men bring to the table, while bringing new music to the country genre. The record is both refreshing and nostalgic at the same time.
Familiar Faces EP Tracklist:
I Need You
I’ll Still Be Loving You
It Was Always You
God Blessed Texas
Left Their Mark
Amazed
The Frontmen release their brand new EP, ‘Familiar Faces,’ out now on all streaming platforms.
Fans can join our Weekly Round-Up e-newsletter here, for the latest in country music and more news about future The Frontmen releases.
Familiar Faces EP 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.
Chris Stapleton shares his new album, Higher, out now, November 10th, on all streaming platforms. Listen to the new music below.
With one of country music’s most recognizable voices, Chris Stapleton is back and better than ever on his new album, Higher, out now. Produced by Stapleton alongside his wife, Morgane, and Dave Cobb, the new 14 track collection was recorded at Nashville’s RCA Studio A.
For the seven time and reigning CMA male vocalist of the year, Higher marks the follow up to 2020’s Starting Over. The new LP, released via Mercury Nashville, allows the bearded wonder to continue doing what he does best: release incredible country music that puts his voice at the forefront.
The album kicks off in high gear with “What Am I Gonna Do?,” a stirring mid-tempo ballad that perfectly pairs Stapleton’s rasp with Morgane’s crystalline background vocals. Here, he finds himself wondering what comes after heartbreak ends. “What am I gonna do when I get over you? // What am I gonna be when you’re just a memory?” He asks in his famous growl. “What am I gonna drink? // When I don’t have to think about what I’m gonna do without you.”
While he may be heartbroken on the album opener, he celebrates love and romance on tracks like the airy “Trust,” the poignant “It Takes a Woman,” the proclamation of eternal love on “The Day I Die,” and the baby-making jam, “Loving You On My Mind.” “Trust” is an immediate highlight with its twinkling acoustic guitar and light percussion as Stapleton croons “If you trust in forever // Trust this heart of mine // We could lose ourselves just like lovers do // If you trust in me, like I trust in you.”
Likewise, “It Takes a Woman” reads much like a love letter to his wife, proclaiming all of the ways in which she makes him better. Musically, it’s a sparse ballad that gives Stapleton’s voice room to breathe and shine. In a similar vein, the album’s title track shares much of the same message, as he describes the ways in which she elevates him, settling into his rarely used and incredibly impressive falsetto.
On “Think I’m In Love With You,” Stapleton proclaims his maybe-love over a 70’s tinted bass line, while “The Fire” finds him longing for a lover over bongos and light percussion. “Oh this fire is real,” He growls, voice laced with desperation. “You’re so close to me, but always out of reach.“
Stapleton turns things up on Southern rock tinted tracks like “South Dakota” and “Crosswind,” with the latter finding him running from something. “Trying to keep all the rubber on 65 // Might not make it out alive,” He growls. “White knuckling the wheel just to survive // Caught in the crosswind.“ Meanwhile, on “Dakota,” he finds himself where “trouble ain’t hard to find.”
“The Bottom” finds the Kentucky native experimenting musically, with its melody and instrumentation having a sunny and almost 80’s pop country vibe. Blended seamlessly with depressing lyrics and Stapleton’s downtrodden vocals, the pairing creates the most unusual juxtaposition. It shouldn’t work, but it does.
“Weight of Your World” finds the singer-songwriter willing to take on someone else’s burden when it becomes just too much to bear. While it could easily be a love song, it could be applied to anyone struggling in someone’s life. “Give me your darkest hour, Give me your deepest fear,” He sings. “Just give me a call and I’ll be here, Give me the bars and chains that won’t set you free, Give me the weight of your world, And lay it on me “
Higher ends with “Mountains on my Mind,” a stunning and threadbare track that was written solely by Stapleton who also played the song’s lone acoustic guitar. Here, he’s exceptionally vulnerable, battling his demons and seeking solace. “I think I’ll find a long white line, curse the world and leave it all behind,” He sings, his powerful voice softening alongside the instrumentation. “I’ve been trying all this time and still can’t climb the mountains of my mind.”
On Higher, much like his other albums, Chris Stapleton is unapologetically himself. He sings the way he sings, he looks the way he looks, he writes the way he writes, and it’s that authenticity that wins over legions of new fans year after year. While it may seem impossible, this LP continues to elevate the superstar, taking him even Higher.
Higher Tracklist:
What Am I Gonna Do
South Dakota
Trust
It Takes A Woman
The Fire
Think I’m In Love With You
Loving You On My Mind
White Horse
Higher
The Bottom
The Day I Die
Crosswind
Weight Of Your World
Mountains Of My Mind
Country Swag Picks:
Trust
What Am I Gonna Do?
White Horse
The Bottom
Chris Stapleton shares new album, ‘Higher,’ out now on all streaming platforms.
Fans can join our Weekly Round-Up e-newsletter here, for the latest in country music and more news about upcoming Chris Stapleton announcements and releases.
For tour dates and more, including a June 8, 2024 stop at NJ’s MetLife Stadium with George Strait and Little Big Town visit his official website here.
Higher 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.
https://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/chris-stapleton-record-1.jpg6301200Nicole Pieringhttps://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/logo-new-cs-white.pngNicole Piering2023-11-12 01:15:172023-11-12 01:15:17Chris Stapleton: ‘Higher’ – Album Review
Zac Brown Band shares a new album, From the Road, Vol. 1: Covers, out now, November 10th, on all streaming platforms. Listen to the new music below.
Known for their blistering live performances, intricate harmonies, and incredible instrumentation, Zac Brown Band has always been a special group to see in concert. While the group has previously released two live albums, 2007’s Live from the Rock Bus Tour and 2010’s Pass the Jar, they are back with their biggest live endeavor to date, From The Road, Vol 1: Covers.
On the 13-track album, ZBB bends genres, effortlessly floating from country to rock to rap with a little bit of pop, standards, and yacht-rock thrown in. Recorded over 11 years at an array of iconic venues, including London’s Wembley Arena, Chicago’s Wrigley Field, and Boston’s Fenway Park, the album also pairs the band with collaborators like John Mayer, Marcus King, Darrell Scott, Mark O’Connor Band, and Aerosmith’s Steven Tyler.
Released on frontman Brown’s own label, Home Grown Music, the live album kicks off with the Queen hit everyone knows and can sing along with, “Bohemian Rhapsody.” It’s the perfect introduction to the album, allowing the band’s harmonies to soar over instrumentation that spans genres over the course of one song.
“Neon” with John Mayer is the collection’s oldest performance, recorded in Nashville in 2012. Here, the guitar virtuoso and ZBB mashup the Mayer classic with “Isn’t She Lovely” in a way that manages to be both endlessly impressive yet incredibly seamless.
Other immediate standouts are the band’s take on Kings of Leon’s megahit, “Use Somebody” and their recordings of the show-stopping Beatles hits “With a Little Help from My Friends” and “Eleanor Rigby.” Likewise, their take on the Who’s “Baba O’Riley” is another epic moment that makes listeners feel like they’re on-stage alongside ZBB, this time at Fenway Park.
The tropical-infused “Margaritaville” cover subtly pays tribute to the late, great Jimmy Buffet, while Steven Tyler lends his distinct vocals to “Sweet Emotion.” Both the Allman Brothers’ “Whipping Post,” featuring Marcus King, and “It’s a Great Day to Be Alive” find ZBB right in their wheelhouse, with the country classic perfect for a special live moment.
While ZBB may be most at home on anthemic rock tunes and country classic, they step outside of that box on covers of the Beastie Boys’ classic “Sabotage,” Metallica’s iconic “Enter Sandman,” and Frank Sinatra’s classic, “The Way You Look Tonight.” While these tracks may be outside of the norm for the band, they allow them to share their multifaceted musical skills.
On From The Road, Vol 1: Covers, Zac Brown Band reminds listeners why they’re one of the best live bands in country music, effortlessly fusing incredible harmonies and pristine musicianship across a wide range of artists and genres. We can’t wait for volume two.
From the Road, Vol. 1: CoversTracklist:
Bohemian Rhapsody (Live at The SSE Arena, Wembley, London, UK, 09.25.2015)
Baba O’Riley (Live at Fenway Park, Boston, MA, 08.20.2016)
Enter Sandman (Live at Wrigley Field, Chicago, IL, 09.14.2014)
Sabotage (Live at Windy City Smokeout, Chicago, IL, 7.16.2023)
Sweet Emotion feat. Steven Tyler (Live at Fenway Park, Boston, MA, 08.09.2015)
Whipping Post feat. Marcus King (Live at Bridgestone Arena, Nashville, TN, 10.17.2021)
Margaritaville (Live at Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek, Raleigh, NC, 10.05.2023)
It’s A Great Day To Be Alive feat. Darrell Scott (Live at Fenway Park, Boston, MA, 06.16.2018)
Eleanor Rigby feat. Darrell Scott & Mark O’Connor Band (Live at Fenway Park, Boston, MA, 06.16.2018)
With a Little Help From My Friends feat. Darrell Scott & Mark O’Connor Band (Live at Fenway Park, Boston, MA, 06.16.2018)
Neon feat. John Mayer (Live at the Southern Ground Music and Food Festival, Nashville, TN, 09.22.2012)
Use Somebody (Live at Jiffy Lube Live, Bristow, VA, 08.25.2019)
The Way You Look Tonight (Live at Irvine Meadows Amphitheatre, Irvine, CA, 06.04.2016)
Country Swag Picks:
With A Little Help From My Friends
Use Somebody
It’s a Great Day to Be Alive
Zac Brown Band shares new album, ‘From The Road, Vol. 1: Covers,’ out now on all streaming platforms.
Fans can join our Weekly Round-Up e-newsletter here, for the latest in country music and more news about upcoming Zac Brown Band announcements and releases.
For tour dates and more, including an August 17 stop at NJ’s MetLife Stadium with Kenny Chesney, Megan Moroney, and Uncle Kracker, visit their official website here.
From The Road, Vol. 1: Covers 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.
https://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/ZBB-album.jpg6301200Nicole Pieringhttps://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/logo-new-cs-white.pngNicole Piering2023-11-10 01:24:502023-11-10 01:24:50Zac Brown Band: ‘From the Road, Vol. 1: Covers’ – Album Review
Kolby Cooper shares brand new song “Running Away,” out now, November 10th, on all streaming platforms. Listen to the new track below.
Kolby Cooper continues to expand his impressive music catalog this year. In September, the creative singer-songwriter debuted a new song called, “Hello From The Road.” Today, Cooper is sharing another new track entitled, “Running Away.”
Much like Cooper’s previously released songs, “Running Away” features an honest, country-rock sound. The signature sound is evident through the new song, especially on the catchy hooks and choruses. “Running Away” captures the notion of wanting to be with someone so bad regardless of the situation and complications. Cooper finds a way to make the song both relatable and authentic.
“The phone lights up at 3AM // That’s how I know you’re drunk and not with him // I don’t care // My walls are paper thin // If you were here, I’d pull you close // and tell you things you already know // let the candle light tangle our shadows // Come on baby, give me one night // I love you like a landslide // Ain’t gotta spend your whole life, running away”
Cooper continues to crank out music that cements his staying power in country music. With each and every new release, we get a deeper understanding of who the singer-songwriter is an artist and where he is headed on his musical journey.
Kolby Cooper shares new song, “Running Away,” out now on all streaming platforms.
Fans can join our Weekly Round-Up e-newsletter here, for the latest in country music and more news about future Kolby Cooper releases.
“Running Away” 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/2023/11/Kolby-cooper-cover.jpg6301200Erica Zismanhttps://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/logo-new-cs-white.pngErica Zisman2023-11-10 01:21:372023-11-13 14:30:45Kolby Cooper Drops Brand New Song “Running Away”
