Elvie Shane: ‘Backslider’ – Album Review

Earlier this year, we were introduced to a brand new recording artist in country music, Elvie Shane. We were blown away by his debut EP County Roads, which featured six country-rock songs that showcased his artistry and grit. Today, the singer-songwriter released his debut album, Backslider. The record boasts fifteen original songs that traditional and modern country fans alike will fall in love with.

The album kicks off with a stunning song called “I Will Run.” The powerful track depicts all of the instances in our lives that we normally run away from. Instead, the beautiful thing is, what we run towards. Shane has a way of flipping a poignant word on its head and making you rethink it, proof of his incredible songwriting.

Another common thread on Backslider is Shane’s ability to showcase his personal story through fun and alluring songs. His number one single “My Boy” depicts his unconventional road to fatherhood, while “My Mississippi” is the personal story of his life. Similarly, Shane brings the nostalgia on “Love, Cold Beer, Cheap Smoke” and the EP’s title-track, “County Roads.”

Shane slows things down on his previously-released “Sundress.” One of our favorites from his debut EP, “Sundress” portrays the singer’s sensitive side.  The sensual lyrics are both vulnerable and touching. Of course, the singer’s vocals also shine on the track. Proving that the artist is just as talented as a songwriter as he is a vocalist.

“We snuck off just around midnight // Threw a little red dust in her tail lights // Drove far enough to get real close // Pulled off on a no-name road // I still think about her now and then // How the night looked on her skin // Ain’t never seen a sunset like // her sundress sitting in the moonlight”

Similarly, we cannot help, but to love Shane’s song “Rocket Science.” Although somber, the new song is relatable and beautiful. The singer professes that understanding the one he loves is like learning “rocket science.” After just one listen, it is clear the singer knows a thing or two about heartache. Shane continues to break himself right open for fans on his killer collaboration with Tenille Townes, “Nothin’ Lasts Forever” as well.

Of course, Shane makes sure to double down on the country-rock elements of his artistry on his full-length record as well. “Saturday Night Me” depicts the slower elements of rock, while “Heartbreaks & Headaches” and “My Kinda Trouble” are the best of the country-rock genre!

However, the record culminates with another intricate ballad called “Miles (with my Mama).” The song is deeply personal, as it portrays the singer’s struggle with losing his father and the emotions that come from that pain. A tribute of sorts, the song digs into the good and the bad of loving and missing someone. Similar to the vulnerability of the hit, “My Boy,” “Miles” is another example of why Shane has cemented a place in country music.

Overall the fifteen-track debut is one of the best of the year. Shane is unapologetically himself. He can write, sing, and convey a story like no one else right now. Backslider is everything we hoped it would be and a must-listen for all.

Backslider 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.