Brett Kissel shares his new album, The Compass Project: West Album, out now, November 3rd on all streaming platforms. Listen to the new music below.
Canadian-country superstar, Brett Kissel kicked off a unique project earlier this year. The singer-songwriter expressed wanting to embark on the most ambitious project of his career so far. In January, the singer announced a four full-length album record called The Compass Project with each album showing off different ides of the singer’s talent. The newest release, The West Album is focused on the southern twang and classic country influences.
“The Compass Project is without question the most ambitious project I’ve ever undertaken,” Kissel explains. “It’s also the one I’m most excited about, being that the complete project includes four full-length albums. At this point in my life and career, I want to tap into all of the different quadrants that represent and guide me as a person, husband, father, artist, and entertainer. Those themes resonate in the distinct direction I take on each album!”
Learn more about the project and listen to the brand new music below.
The Compass Project: West Album Tracklist:
Missin’ You in San Antone
Oil and Cattle ft. George Canyon, Don Amaro, Brad Johner
Legacy
Deer Blind
Wichita Lineman
The Crib Song
Strait Country
Black Eyed Susans
Behind Closed Doors
Queen on the River
Here’s Hoping There’ll (Always Be a Cowboy)
Brett Kissel shares his new album, ‘The Compass Project, West Album” 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 Brett Kissel announcements and releases.
The Compass Project: West Album 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/2023/10/bret-kissel-album.jpg6301200Erica Zismanhttps://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/logo-new-cs-white.pngErica Zisman2023-11-03 00:10:442023-11-03 00:10:44Here Is Brett Kissel’s Album ‘The Compass Project: West Album’
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
Brett Kissel’s brand new song “Make A Life, Not A Living” is available now, March 5th, everywhere you buy or stream music. Take a look below as we dig a little deeper into the track.
A major success already in his home country of Canada, Brett Kissel looks to have the same impact on country music in the states. His charismatic personality, energetic stage presence, and talented music style has led him to the top of Canadian country music charts, with two Gold-certified albums, a Platinum single, eight Gold Singles, and 15 top-10 radio hits.
Between 2019 and 2020, Kissel took home several awards including the JUNO Award (the equivalent to an American GRAMMY) for Country Album of the Year for We Were That Song, and won the Canadian Country Music Association’s (CCMA) Fan’s Choice Award, Male of the Year, and Album of the Year. This was Kissel’s second JUNO Award, his first being for Breakthrough Artist of the Year in 2014, which made him the first country artist to take home the title in 17 years, the last being Shania Twain.
The talented singer-songwriter joined us back in 2019 for an interview and acoustic performance. Check it out in the video below.
Today, Kissel introduces fans to a brand new song, “Make A Life, Not A Living”, the first single off Kissel’s forthcoming album, What Is Life?, due out April 9th. The song is about filling your life with experiences and moments with the people you love and not determining your life’s value by dollar amounts and materialistic items. It’s a reminder to be happy with all that you do have and to not worry about what you don’t. When it comes down to it, you can’t take anything with you when you go so you might as well spend your time focused on making a life, not a living.
“I’m good with what the good Lord’s given / dirt under my boots, and the air i’m breathing / Lose every penny, I’d still be winning / I’m tryna make a life, not a living”
Brett Kissel’s “Make A Life, Not A Living” is available everywhere now, March 5th
Fans can join our Weekly Round-Up e-newsletter here, for the latest in country music and more news about future Brett Kissel releases.
“Make A Life, Not a Living” 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/brett-kissel-new.jpg6301200Caleigh DeCapriohttps://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/logo-new-cs-white.pngCaleigh DeCaprio2021-03-05 01:12:212021-03-05 01:12:21Brett Kissel New Song “Make A Life, Not A Living”
Just three days into the new year and country fans already have some new music to be excited about! Rising artist and Swag Session alum, Brett Kissel recently released his newest album Now or Never, which is comprised of eight unique cuts that showcase the singer’s talent in the best light.
The record begins with his latest single “Drink About Me.” Kissel explained a little bit about his inspiration for the track, as well as, sang the song for us, during our live interview back in October of this year. The song is the ideal introduction into the singer-songwriter’s artistry, and the play on words is the perfect lyrical touch to the heartbreaking breakup tune.
In the next track, Kissel relies on a rhythmic instrumental and a groovy beat to deliver “A Few Good Stories.” With a vibe similar to Thomas Rhett’s, Kissel shines on the upbeat track. The radio friendly jam has a simple message about having fun and living life to the fullest.
“I’m gonna soak up the sun / Keep the wind in my sails / Try to get to heaven while raising little hell / When it’s all said and done, I’ll know I lived it well / If I ain’t got nothing but a few good stories to tell”
In a similar vein, “Young Enough” reminds us to “love the life we live and live the life we love,” while we are young and can do whatever we want. Additionally, “She Drives Me Crazy” continues to mix catchy lyrics with an enticing backing track. Yet again, Kissel blends modern country with a smooth sound and relatable lyrics that any country fan can identify with.
Although all the songs off Kissel’s new project shine in their own right, “That’s Country Music” may one of the best. Listed as track number three, the song is an ode to what we all love, country music. The singer speaks from the heart in the honest and stripped-down track. Forgoing clichés, Kissel makes sure to name everything that he feels is part of country music, all while creating something that is at the heart of the genre, story-telling at it’s finest.
“It’s a never felt a heartbreak like this / That’s country music / That’s why we do it / It hits the heart and soul and just feels right / That’s country music / It pulls through it / It’s the ups and the down, the soundtrack of our lives / That’s country music.”
Continuing to showcase his undeniable talent, “Hummingbird” is as vulnerable as it gets. Eloquently named, the track explores the emotions associated with love and loss in the most poignant way. Referring to a lost love as a ‘hummingbird,’ Kissel laments singing, “some things are not meant to be,” and better yet, that sometimes it is a blessing to let someone go free.
The second to last song on the track “I’m Not Him I’m Not Her” features Kissel in a duet with female songstress, Christina Taylor. The two singers take turns singing verses, showcasing both the male and female perspectives as they try to make sense about how trust issues can impact a current relationship. Both the vocal delivery and the lyrical message are equally as impactful, vulnerable, and powerful. This is the song we never knew we always needed in country music!
“I’m tired of trying to find someone / smiling through the tears / when it’s all said and done / love cannot be trusted is the lesson that I learned / I’m not him / I’m not her.”
Finally, Kissel ends his creative record with a beautiful song called “Coffee With Her.” We learned from our Swag Session that the song blossomed from an interview that Johnny Cash gave with a publication about his version of paradise. Kissel took Cash’s incredibly insightful answer and created an equally as exquisite song. Although simple, the romantic lyrics are a standout and leave you wanting more.
As early fans and champions of Kissel, we are so excited to see how his music is received by county fans in the United States and hope that he achieves success here, as he already has had in Canada.
Now or Never 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.
The Hero Collectionby NYCountry Swag is inspired by the men and women of the Fire, Police and Military Departments across the country. A portion of sales from each purchase is donated to different foundations that support our heroes. We are dedicated to honoring their service and remembering their sacrifice.
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Brett Kissel was our very first Swag Spotlight back in January of 2018 and now we had the opportunity to interview him live and hear two of his newest songs. During our interview, Kissel shared some exciting news, that his new album will be released on January 1st, giving fans something to look forward to in the new year.
Watch our interview and the singer-songwriter from Canada sing his latest single “Drink About Me” and an unreleased song from his upcoming album, “Coffee With Her”.
For more music from artists we’ve featured during our LIVE Swag Sessions, check out our Sessions Playlist below and give it a follow for updates.
The Hero Collectionby NYCountry Swag is inspired by the men and women of the Fire, Police and Military Departments across the country. A portion of sales from each purchase is donated to different foundations that support our heroes. We are dedicated to honoring their service and remembering their sacrifice.
—————————-
Thank You for supporting Country Music in NYC & Beyond!
Subscribe to our Weekly Round-Up here
for ticket giveaways, meet & greet contests, upcoming events,
and all things country music in the New York metro area and beyond!
Brett Kissel is one of the top touring acts on the Canadian Country music scene and is on his way to becoming a household name across the United States. With songs like “Anthem” and “We Were That Song,” he has garnered tons of fans and he was actually our very first Swag Spotlight back in January of 2018. His latest song “Drink About Me” is his first single to be released in the states, alongside a brand new music video.
Kissel’s new single showcases the fact that we have all at some point drank about someone or to someone. Teaming up with his dear friends and Bachelor Nation fan-favorites, Kaitlyn Bristowe and Jason Tartick, Kissel makes his compelling story come to life. “Drink About Me” displays the common feeling of missing someone and thinking back on your favorite memories with that person and the feelings associated with that. “I am so excited to put out a brand new song into the musical universe. When you hear this song, I hope you’ll reminisce about your best days, happiest times, first kiss, longest kiss, and warmest embrace,” commented Kissel in a press release.
The video was shot on the romantic island of Andros in the Bahamas and showcases Bristowe and Tartick riding bikes, swimming, walking on the beach, climbing on rocks, and, of course, lots of drinking. Later in the video things quickly progress to laying in a hammock, a sweet kiss on top of a pool table, all leading up to the end, a passionate makeout session in the pool. Although you have to watch till the end for a twist.
Bristowe commented in a press release, “In this video, you are going to see some pretty heavy making out, a little drinking and beautiful views. I wanted to be part of this song because I knew it was about a love story and making memories.” Tartick also joined and stated, “Expect to see a very intimate relationship from all perspectives and in different sceneries. We’re just two people who are clearly in love and not afraid to show it.” That is exactly what this song is all about.
Considering how fast he is taking over Canada’s hearts, we have no doubt that this song will be showcased all over the states for people to hear. The 5x Canadian Country Music Award nominee and Apple Music Fans’ Choice winner is very excited to be making and releasing new music as well as adding new tour dates.
“Drink About Me” 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.
The Hero Collectionby NYCountry Swag is inspired by the men and women of the Fire, Police and Military Departments across the country. A portion of sales from each purchase is donated to different foundations that support our heroes. We are dedicated to honoring their service and remembering their sacrifice.
—————————-
Thank You for supporting Country Music in NYC & Beyond!
Subscribe to our Weekly Round-Up here
for ticket giveaways, meet & greet contests, upcoming events,
and all things country music in the New York metro area and beyond!
https://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/brett-kissel-drink-about-you.jpg6301200Molly Holmberghttps://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/logo-new-cs-white.pngMolly Holmberg2019-09-10 15:34:082019-09-11 21:50:02Brett Kissel Teams Up With Bachelor-Nation Fan Favorites for New Video
Growing up on a cattle ranch in rural Flat Lake, Alberta Canada, our very first New Artist Feature, Brett Kissel learned a lot about country living. It all started when Kissel was merely seven years old, receiving his first guitar from his grandmother for Christmas. During our interview, Kissel explained the gift of that guitar was similar to the first time a child gets a football or a hockey stick then goes on to play professionally, that was the moment for him when he realized his dreams. “As a little kid, I didn’t know it was a career path, all I knew I wanted to do was play guitar and sing,” he explained, “It didn’t take long for me to really gravitate towards the true entertainers and the live show performers, that was my biggest passion.”
He lets us know about his influences growing up, listening to Johnny Cash, Marty Robbins, and George Jones, but explains that everything changed for him when he saw Brooks and Dunn perform live. Then he saw a DVD of Garth Brooks and that sealed the deal. “A lot of people who you might talk to will tell you they found a love for songwriting or the studio, for me it was a love for the stage.”
Fast forward twenty years, Kissel is the only Canadian to tour with Garth Brooks, acting as his opener for over twenty concerts on his world tour. He recalls the first night on the tour, being nervous to take the stage when “Garth knocks on the door and says “We are actually going to push back the show a little bit, I know you are supposed to play at 7:30 but we don’t have a full crowd yet so we are going to put you on at 8:00 and give them an extra 30 minutes of anticipation and make sure you have the full 19k people.” The reigning CMA Entertainer of the Year is an inspiration to the rising star to work as hard as he can to achieve his dreams of being an artist in the country music genre.
Already on his way, Kissel has had a ton of success in Canada and is currently the reigning Male Artist of the Year at the Canadian Country Music Awards. He was the youngest artist ever to be nominated and currently has 10 CCMAs. He built up an incredible fan base in Canada and decided it was time to move to Music City. Pulling the trigger after marrying his wife in 2011, they moved to Nashville in 2012 and his goal was to harness the momentum and energy from his Canadian success and bring it to the American market. “We love the city and the creative atmosphere that is here and we love our friends that have turned into family. If we can we will stay here for the rest of our lives,” he explains.
His latest single, and the title track off of his new full-length album, “We Were That Song” is being spun on Sirius XM The Highway. Kissel explains that although he did write the majority of the songs on the new record, “We Were That Song” was written by one of his favorite writers on Music Row, Jonathan Singleton and when he heard it he knew he had to record it. “The record has 13 tracks and it is an extremely diverse project, we have a lot of everything. Country music is the only genre, in my opinion, that lets other genres kind of seep in,” he tells us about his latest project “My record was designed to disarm what anybody thought country music could be.”
If you are looking for diversity, We Were That Song is chock full of it. From a duet with Dave Mustaine, the founder, and lead of the heavy metal band Mega Death, to a touching song written specifically about becoming a dad to daughters (Kissel has two) each country fan will find something to love. “I wanted to create a record that was like everybody’s playlist on their phone. If people listen to classic country then Rihanna and then Bieber, then Aldean then FGL then they circle back around to me, I wanted to make sure my record was chaotic and random so that everybody found something that they liked on it,” he proudly tells us.
Explaining that he understood the risks of releasing an album that is sonically all over the map, he tells us, “I think we need to risk some things to get noticed in Nashville, which is just filled with so many great songwriters and artists, I just wanted to do something that was different and something that spoke to me.” Looking forward to the new year, Kissel says he is so happy about the way the first single is performing organically and he looks forward to promoting the new album and playing his music for his fans.
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https://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/BRETT_COVER.jpg288480Christina Boschhttps://countryswag.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/logo-new-cs-white.pngChristina Bosch2018-01-08 13:28:302018-01-08 13:48:01NYCS New Artist Feature: Brett Kissel
