Granger Smith’s new album Country Things, Vol. 1 is here, marking this his tenth studio release. The eight-track project is one you’ll want to listen to and then listen to again, as it will teach you to appreciate the moments in life that money can’t buy, not to take anything for granted, and enjoy every moment spent with your loved ones.

Smith began working on this project last year before it was put on hold when he and his wife, Amber, tragically lost their son River, in an accidental drowning. While it must have been difficult to start back up, the singer-songwriter showcases his incredible strength and gratitude for the life he built with each song.

The title track “Country Things” starts off the album in true country fashion with a fiddle. Written by Jordan Schmidt, Michael Hardy, Ernest K. Smith, Brian Kelley and, Hunter Phelps, this song sets the whole upbeat yet deep, tone of the album. It shares the message that no matter where you’re from, take a moment, and enjoy the simple “country things” in life, including dirt roads, manners, and passed down recipes.

“I Kill Spiders” is a song that every parent needs to hear and even if you’re not a parent, it will still pull on your heartstrings. Written by Smith and Tim Owens, this song starts with a little girl’s voice calling her dad saying she needs him. The touching melody shares the message that whether you need them to kill spiders or help you when you’re feeling lost, your parents will always be there for you to make your world a bit brighter.

Smith does a fantastic job reminding us to live in the present with “That’s Why I Love Dirt Roads”. He also reminds us to be thankful for the people in our lives who go the extra mile to make sure we succeed with “Heroes”.

While this album may make you stop and think, Smith did a great job of balancing out the deep songs with the traditional love and country pride songs we are used to. Additionally, no need to worry as fan-favorite and Smith’s alter ego, Earl Dibbles Jr., closes out the album with a fun twist of the popular kid’s tune “If You’re Happy And You Know It”. Appropriately retitled “Country & Ya Know It”, the song shows appreciation to the country lifestyle, and instead of clapping your hands, you raise a beer. We cannot wait to sing along to this at a future live show.

Country Things, Vol. 1 gives you a new appreciation for the little things in life and we can’t wait to see what Volume 2 brings.

To keep up with Granger Smith follow him on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.

Country Things, Vol. 1  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.

—————

SHOP THE HERO COLLECTION

The Hero Collection by 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.