NYCS First Impression: King Calaway’s Self-Titled Debut EP
If there’s any question as to which new country act is bound to be the genre’s next big thing, look no further than King Calaway. The six-man band released their self-titled debut EP today (Jan 25.) via BBR’s Stoney Creek Records. Based on the mounting buzz and the cleverly-crafted EP, this group is undoubtedly poised for superstardom.
What makes King Calaway unique is the fact that the group is comprised of six individual musicians from three different countries, each with a diverse musical background and varied experience that includes international tours, television and award show appearances, and even American Idol golden tickets. Interestingly, the band does not boast a true frontman, but instead features Jordan Harvey, Chad Michael Jervis and Simon Dumas trading off on lead vocals, backed by multi-part harmonies from drummer Chris Deaton, lead guitarist Caleb Miller and bassist Austin Luther. Additionally, each member is a well-rounded musician, resulting in a sound that is heavily influenced by the likes of the Eagles, Keith Urban, and Ed Sheeran.
Formed in 2018, the sextet teamed with Ross Copperman and Robert Deaton for their debut project. “The six musicians who make up King Calaway are a fresh take on contemporary country music,”says Deaton. “These young men hail from all corners of the globe, but when put together on a stage, they are one and magic happens.”
On their debut EP, King Calaway enlisted a plethora of Nashville’s biggest songwriters and artists to contribute songs. The EP features the likes of Copperman, Jon Nite, Josh Osborne, Andy Albert, Teddy Geiger, Mitchell Tenpenny, Devin Dawson, Jordan Schmidt, and more.
The EP opens with the debut single, “World For Two,” a mid-tempo love song, co-written by Copperman, Josh Osborne, and James Abrahart. From the first notes, it’s clear that King Calaway’s harmonies are what makes them unique. The track evokes a bit of Extreme’s “More Than Words” mixed with Thomas Rhett and late-90’s Brit sensations BBMak to create something unique to country music. “World For Two” is a perfectly crafted piece of pop country, and we’d be shocked if it doesn’t end up topping the radio charts.
The EP picks up the pace on “No Matter What,” a fun, up-tempo track that will have you singing along by the song’s catchy second chorus. “I Do” is a lovelorn ballad that has our leading men crooning over the one that got away and the fact that they still think about the mistakes that led to the breakup. “What really hurts is/ I say the words/ You always wanted me to / I do/ Yeah I do/ Oh I do/ Think about you.”
One of the highlights of the EP is a cheerful, harmonic cover of the Stephen Stills classic, “Love the One You’re With.” Maybe it was the instant familiarity of the track, but this one immediately brought a smile to my face.
The EP ends with “Rivers,” which is much more pop than country (think “The Middle” or “This Feeling”), but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. Looking at the crossover power of artists like Maren Morris, Kelsea Ballerini, and Dan + Shay, and it’s abundantly clear that King Calaway is being groomed for multi-genre success. “Rivers” is an instant hit, ear-wormy and delightful, and we guarantee you’ll have it on repeat.
In many ways, King Calaway is the boyband that country music never knew it always needed. With a diverse group of six talented guys, this band is sure to have the girls swooning, snatching up their albums, and coming out in droves to their live shows. Watch out Why Don’t We and BTS, King Calaway is here to claim your crowns.
This past week, King Calaway hit the stage at New York City’s Bowery Electric for an exclusive show with NYCountrySwag. Additionally, they’ll make their Grand Ole Opry Debut on Friday, March 1. For more information on King Calaway, please visit kingcalaway.com and be sure to follow them on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Spotify.
King Calaway 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.
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