DISClaimer Single Reviews: Balsam Range, Rhonda Vincent, Danny Paisley

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Balsam Range

The bluegrass grows all around in today’s edition of DisClaimer.

Unquestionably, the DisCovery Award goes to The Kody Norris Show, a band that simply delighted my senses.

The Disc of the Day contest is a little more complicated, so I’m giving out three of these prizes. The Female vocal winner is bluegrass queen Rhonda Vincent with her Porter Wagoner song revival. The Male vocal winner is big Danny Paisley, who has soul to spare. The Group performance award goes to the lovely gospel effort by Balsam Range.

Happy listening.

THE KODY NORRIS SHOW / “Love Bug”
Writers: Kody Norris; Producer: none listed; Label: Rebel
— Charming. This rhinestoned, retro costumed foursome plays with crisp precision and sings with high-lonesome authenticity. The song is an upbeat, light-hearted ditty about falling head over heels… and it will leave you with a grin on yer face.

DALE ANN BRADLEY / “Falling Down”
Writers: Ashby Frank; Producer: none listed; Label: Pine Castle Records
— This much awarded bluegrass Female Vocalist winner has a sterling collection titled Things She Couldn’t Get Over that is currently the No. 1 bluegrass album. This thoughtful, mid-tempo song from it has both poetry and rippling instrumental textures to transport you to hillbilly nirvana.

ALAN BIBEY & GRASSTOWNE / “Hitchhiking to California”
Writers: Wes Goldberg/Alan Bibey/Jerry Salley; Producer: Alan Bibey, Grasstowne, Ron Stewart, Jerry Salley; Label: Billy Blue
— The sprightly title tune of this quintet’s current CD is presently at No. 1 on the Bluegrass Unlimited chart. The vocals are somewhat creamy, rather than edgy, so it goes down smoothly.

ROLAND WHITE & FRIENDS / “Alabama Jubilee”
Writers: George L. Cobb/Jack Yellen; Producer: Ty Gilpin & Jon Weisberger; Label: Mountain Home
— White’s illustrious career has included stints with Country Gazette and The Nashville Bluegrass Band. His current CD is A Tribute to The Kentucky Colonels, the group that launched the legendary mandolinist’s career. On this deliciously lively instrumental track, he’s joined by Kristin Scott Benson of The Grascals, and the album’s other bluegrass celeb guests include Darin & Brooke Aldridge, Gina Furtado, David Grier, Billy Strings and Molly Tuttle. At age 83, his fingers still fly over the fretboard like greased lightning.

BALSAM RANGE / “Grit and Grace”
Writers: Ann Melton/Beth Husband/Milan Miller; Producer: Balsam Ridge; Label: Mountain Home
— Sublimely lovely. The gentle gospel ballad is caressed by this durable ensemble with enormous heart. As a man looks back at his life’s ups and downs, he recognizes, “I supplied the grit, and God supplied the grace.”

RHONDA VINCENT / “What Ain’t to Be Just Might Happen”
Writers: Porter Wagoner; Producer: Rhonda Vincent; Label: Upper Management
— Vincent takes a 1972 Porter Wagoner country oldie out for a brisk romp with dynamic fiddle, mandolin and banjo breaks. It goes without saying that her wailin’ vocal is supreme. This new track is headed skyward.

DANNY PAISLEY & THE SOUTHERN GRASS / “Blink of an Eye”
Writers: Robert Amos; Producer: Wes Easter, Danny Paisley, Ryan Paisley & Bobby Lundy; Label: Pinecastle
— This new release is the lead track from Paisley’s Bluegrass Troubadour collection. It has a captivating, cool, rolling groove, and the excellent, bluesy singing is mountain soulful in the extreme. Mournful majesty. So nice I played it twice.

LARRY CORDLE / “Cherokee Fiddle”
Writers: Michael Martin Murphey; Producer: none listed; Label: Mighty Cord
— I’ve always liked this Michael Martin Murphey tune from 1977 (revived by Johnny Lee on the Urban Cowboy soundtrack) and am not at all surprised by how well it adapts to a bluegrass treatment. Nashville tunesmith Cordle can always be counted on for quality.

BARRY ABERNATHY & VINCE GILL / “Birmingham Jail”
Writers: none listed; Producer: Barry Abernathy & Jim VanCleve; Label: Billy Blue
— Banjo picking singer Abernathy has rounded up a busload of buddies for his new CD, which debuted on the bluegrass album chart this month. They include Dan Tyminski, Rhonda Vincent, Steve Gulley, Doyle Lawson, Sam Bush, Bryan Sutton, Rob Ickes and, on this toe-tapping album opener, everyone’s favorite tenor harmony singer.

JUNIOR SISK / “Just Load the Wagon”
Writers: J.R. Satterwhite; Producer: none listed; Label: Mountain Fever
— Rural nostalgia reigns here, and it doesn’t get much more down-home and old timey than this. The tempo will have you dancing around the kitchen, and the vintage mood will make you smile. Pure pleasure.

HIGH FIDELITY / “Banjo Player’s Blues”
Writers: Charlie Monroe; Producer: Jeremy Stephens, Corrina Rose Logston & Brad Benge; Label: Rebel
— Infectious. It’s the title track of this Nashville band’s current album. Jeremy Stephens’ hearty lead vocal is nearly outshone by the dashing fiddle of Corrina Rose Logston, and the overall effect is good vibrations all around.

BRONWYN KEITH-HYNES & SARAH JAROSZ / “Last Train”
Writers: Peter Rowan; Producer: none listed; Label: Sugar Petunia
— Fiddler Keith-Hynes has a high, yearning vocal delivery, but the spotlight shines brightest here on the sizzling instrumental work featuring mandolin magician Jarosz as well as her own slippery, silvery bowed notes.

DISClaimer Single Reviews: Old Dominion, Marty Stuart, Frank Ray

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Old Dominion. Photo: Mason Allen

Sometimes your head has to overrule your heart.

My favorite tracks this week are by Hall of Fame members—Marty Stuart’s “Skip a Rope,” The Oaks’ “Swing Down Chariot” and Michael McDonald & Willie Nelson’s “Dreams of the San Joaquin.” I’d crown any one of them my Disc of the Day. But bowing to radio reality, I have to give the prize to Old Dominion and its outstanding song of summer.

There are a number of new faces in the column this week. I am most interested in Frank Ray, who earns the DisCovery Award.

VINCENT NEIL EMERSON / “Texas Moon”
Writers: Vincent Neil Emerson; Producer: Rodney Crowell; Label: La Honda/Thirty Tigers
— His folkie vocal is backed by an enchanting bluegrassy blend of rippling acoustic guitars, fiddle and banjo. The dandy song is about a wandering fellow who is headed home to the Lone Star State. Highly promising.

RAY SCOTT / “Cover the Earth”
Writers: Ray Scott; Producer: Ray Scott & Michael Hughes; Label: OneRPM
— I have always liked this guy. His dark, rich baritone is a voice to get lost in. This mid-tempo tune rolls along with hearty energy and charisma, punctuated with semi-spoken accents. A winner.

DAVID FERGUSON / “Knockin’ Around Nashville”
Writers: Pat McLaughlin; Producer: David Ferguson; Label: Fat Possum
— Super producer Fergie is best known for being behind the board for Cash, Prine, Sturgill Simpson, Margo Price and more. Now he’s stepping out as an artist, himself, with this wistful, ultra-traditional, steel-soaked, slow ballad. Country, country, country.

MIRANDA LAMBERT / “They’ve Closed Down the Honky Tonks”
Writers: Miranda Lambert; Producer: Jon Randall; Label: Vanner Records/RCA Records Label Nashville
— Stark and acoustic, like the rest of The Marfa Tapes album. The simple setting throws a spotlight on her extraordinary, stone-country vocal powers. There are a zillion reasons why she is at the top of this format, and this performance is yet another.

FILMORE / “Who Cares”
Writers: Filmore/Zach Abend/Josh Kerr; Producer: Zach Abend; Label: Curb Records
— Bubbling joy. Full of delightful rhythm and jaunty attitude. This guy always impresses me with his sonic creativity.

MICHAEL McDONALD & WILLIE NELSON / “Dreams of the San Joaquin”
Writers: Randy Sharp/Jack Wesley Routh; Producer: none listed; Label: Stem/Chonin
— This single benefits the United Farm Workers. McDonald leads the way with a languid, haunting delivery of the contemplative ballad. Then he and Nelson begin entwining their golden voices with accompaniment by David Hidalgo of Los Lobos, and the effect is utterly magical.

FRANK RAY / “Streetlights”
Writers: Frank Ray/Bobby Hamrick/Frank Rogers; Producer: Frank Rogers; Label: BBR
— This Texan is a former police officer who mixes his Latino heritage with pop-country production. The bilingual track has bright bursts of brass amid nervous rhythmic beats. Intriguing. Send more.

OLD DOMINION / “I Was on a Boat That Day”
Writers: Shane McAnally/Brad Tursi/Geoff Sprung/Josh Osborne/Matthew Ramsey/Trevor Rosen/Whit Sellers; Producer: Old Dominion/Shane McAnally; Label: Arista Nashville
— How timely. Memorial Day weekend is upon us, and here’s the official summer kick-off song. This sunny bopper is the sound of happiness.

LILY ROSE / “Remind Me of You”
Writers: Sam Hunt/Corey Crowder/Ryan Vojtesak/Ernest Keith Smith; Producer: Matt Morrisey/Joey Moi; Label: Big Loud/Back Blocks/Republic
— Decidedly on the pop side of pop-country, but a listening delight. Catchy, sweet, warm and winning while delving in relationship regret.

MARTY STUART / “Skip a Rope”
Writers: Glenn Douglas Tubb/Jack Moran; Producer: Marty Stuart; Label: MS
— One of the all-time cool country social-message songs is dusted off by this new Country Music Hall of Famer. The song was a huge hit for Henson Cargill in 1968. Co-writer Tubb passed away this week, and this is a more than fitting elegy.

TIGIRLILY / “My Thang”
Writers: Kendra Slaubaugh/Krista Slaubaugh/Walker Hayes; Producer: Shane McAnally/Louis Newman; Label: Monument
— This sister duo harmonizes perfectly. The choppy, bouncy track is packed with pop energy.

THE OAK RIDGE BOYS / “Swing Down Chariot”
Writers: Marty Matthews; Producer: Dave Cobb; Label: Lightning Rod/Thirty Tigers
— If you aren’t tapping your toes by the time this concludes, check your pulse. This scratches that old-time gospel itch, big time. Loved every note.

DISClaimer Single Reviews: Cody Johnson & Willie Nelson, Dustin Lynch & Chris Lane

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Willie Nelson, Cody Johnson

Collaborations are on the menu today in DisClaimer.

Sometimes they are between country acts (Dustin Lynch & Chris Lane, Willie & Cody Johnson) and sometimes they are cross-genre efforts (Needtobreathe & Carrie, Maren & Joy Oladokun). But in every case, they are all worthwhile.

The Disc of the Day award goes to my man Cody Johnson for his revival (with Willie) of Willie’s song “Sad Songs and Waltzes.” If you must have tempo, you can’t do better than the Lynch/Lane collab “Tequila on a Boat” or the Nashvillains’ bopping “Who Don’t.”

Give the James Barker Band this week’s DisCovery Award.

CODY JOHNSON & WILLIE NELSON / “Sad Songs and Waltzes”
Writers: Willie Nelson; Producer: Trent Willmon; Label: CoJo Music/Warner Music Nashville
— I have always loved this Willie chestnut. As a duet between these two awesome Texans, it becomes an atmospheric mini masterpiece. The production is perfection, and the vocals are as warm as a campfire.

DUSTIN LYNCH & CHRIS LANE / “Tequila On A Boat”
Writers: Hillary Lindsey/Justin Ebach/Matt Alderman; Producer: Zach Crowell; Label: Broken Bow Records
— This funky groover sounds exactly like a summer anthem. Bob heads and smile.

JOEY HEFFERNAN & JOE DIFFIE / “When the Golden Leaves Begin to Fall”
Writers: Bill Monroe; Producer: none listed; Label: JH
— Veteran sideman, Dobro instructor and touring artist Hefferman teamed up with the late great vocalist Diffie for this stately, slow-waltz rendition of a Bill Monroe gem. Their accompanying band is an all-star get together. Diffie’s lead vocal is a stirring reminder of what a fine talent we lost when he became the first music star to die of Covid-19 last year.

WILLIE JONES / “Down By the Riverside”
Writers: Willie Jones/Josh Logan/Jason Afable; Producer: Jason Afable; Label: Sony Music Nashville/Penthouse
— This guy manages to fuse hip-hop and country better than most. This tilts a little more more urban than country, but there’s still singing plus a square-dance element. Catchy and clever.

CHASE BRYANT & JESSI ALEXANDER / “Even Now”
Writers: Chase Bryant/Joe Haydel/Tim Owens; Producer: Jon Randall/Chase Bryant; Label: Green Iris
— Exquisitely heartbreaking. This is the best written and most beautifully sung breakup ballad I’ve heard in ages. Play and believe.

MICHAEL RAY / “Picture”
Writers: Michael Ray/Michael Hardy/David Garcia/Ross Copperman; Producer: Ross Copperman; Label: Warner Music Nashville
— “Take every snapshot while you can/Tell them that you love them while you got a chance.” Because one day all you will have is the memory and a photo. A lovely sentiment, a pretty melody and a sincere performance. What’s not to love?

JAMES BARKER BAND / “Over All Over Again”
Writers: Gavin Slate/James Barker/Todd Clark/Travis Wood; Producer: none listed; Label: Sony Music Nashville
— The ingredients here are dynamic country-rock rhythm, dandy lyrics, youthful energy and a soaring lead vocal. I dig this. Play it again.

TRIXIE MATTEL & ORVILLE PECK / “Jackson”
Writers: Billy Edd Wheeler/Jerry Leiber; Producer: Nick Goldston; Label: TM
— Trixie is a country-music drag queen. Orville is that guy in the fringed mask with the throaty, melodramatic delivery. Their pairing on this Johnny-and-June classic is country camp all the way. It has verve and moxie to spare.

NEEDTOBREATHE & CARRIE UNDERWOOD / “I Wanna Remember”
Writers: Bear Rinehart; Producer: Konrad Snyder/Needtobreathe; Label: Elektra
— The Grammy winning Christian rock band teams with the mighty voiced country queen on a boiling, emotive power ballad. This little pop beauty will definitely stir yer blood.

JADEN HAMILTON / “Heaven’s Jukebox”
Writers: Jaden Hamilton/Ryan Beaver/Jared Keim; Producer: Matthew McVaney; Label: Sony Music Nashville
— I remain in this neo-traditionalist kid’s corner. This time, he’s treating us to a rolling, upbeat ditty that is a country fan’s vision of the Hereafter. Worthy.

JOY OLADOKUN & MAREN MORRIS / “Bigger Man”
Writers: Joy Oladokun/Maren Morris/Jimmy Robbins/Laura Veltz; Producer: Jimmy Robbins/Joy Oladokun; Label: Amigo/Verve Forecast/Republic
— Joy is a Nigerian American who has moved to Music City from Arizona. She cites Tracy Chapman as an influence, and I can certainly hear that in her folk-tinged, Americana style. Maren helps to anchor the downbeat, poetic lyric with her languid, earthy vocals. Intriguingly different.

NASHVILLAINS / “Who Don’t”
Writers: Andrew Dorff/Brad Tursi/Corey Crowder; Producer: Steve Dorff; Label: Fate Entertainment
— This is a trio comprised of Music City songwriters/producers Brett Boyett, Troy Johnson and Scott Lindsey. Their single is a thumpy, rhythm-happy outing with bounce and charm. I defy you not to tap your toes.

DISClaimer Single Reviews: Alan Jackson, Gary Allan, Brittney Spencer

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Alan Jackson. Photo: Russ Harrington

Spring has sprung, but not all the blossoms are beautiful.

Today’s survey of current country sounds can serve as a textbook for what is wrong with some of the directions that contemporary country acts are taking. We have pop-rock, teen pop and hip-hop influenced tracks here, flaunting any classic definitions of the genre.

I have always been a traditionalist at heart. That’s why Alan Jackson easily wins the Disc of the Day award.

Mind you, I’m not averse to modern country stylings. Hence, my hearty endorsement of the tunes by Gary Allan, Mitchell Tenpenny, Brittney Spencer and our DisCovery Award winner, Savannah Keyes.

ROSS COPPERMAN / “Holdin’ You”
Writers: Ross Copperman/Ashley Gorley/Shane McAnally; Producer: Ross Copperman/Alex Mendoza; Label: Photo Finish Records
— Copperman has produced and/or written a blue-zillion country hits (Darius, Dierks, Kelsea, Phil, Jake, Brad, Eldredge, Gabby, etc. etc.), but his own music is quite pop. Processed vocals, electronic track, the works. A pleasant surprise.

GARY ALLAN / “Temptation”
Writers: Nicolle Galyon/Chase McGill/Jon Nite; Producer: Mark Wright/Tony Brown; Label: EMI Nashville
— Rocking and dramatic with a percussive undertow, bell-clear guitar chiming, a driving melody and a terrific vocal performance. Allan exchanges his rasp for tenor clarity and the shift is ear opening. Highly recommended.

SOUTHERLAND / “Boot Up”
Writers: Greg Bates/Matt Chase/Chris Rogers/Austin Taylor Smith; Producer: Greg Bates; Label: River House/Sony Nashville
— This has a slight “outlaw” vibe and more than a little macho attitude. Blue-collar listening.

ALAN JACKSON / “Where Have You Gone”
Writers: Alan Jackson; Producer: Robert Keith Stegall; Label: EMI Nashville
— Tender, wistful, yearning, profound and bluer than blue. A ballad of loss, wrapped in fiddle and steel and performed by a country-music master. “Sweet country music, where have you gone?” Amen, bro.

BRITTNEY SPENCER & COMMON HYMNAL / “Whiskey Lows”
Writers: Brittney Spencer/Shelley Scarr/Stephan Hovsepian; Producer: Will Reagan; Label: BS
— A plea from the depths of addiction that echoes with emotional truth and honesty. The gospel-infused performance of this ballad is riveting. Former Underwood backup singer Spencer steps into a solo spotlight with her debut on the Grand Ole Opry Friday night.

MITCHELL TENPENNY / “To Us It Did”
Writers: Mitchell Tenpenny/Michael Hardy/Jordan Schmidt; Producer: none listed; Label: Columbia Nashville/Riser House
— Marvelously energetic and charmingly written. It’s a anthem for small-town kids everywhere that Tenpenny sings with immense verve. Loved it.

WALKER HAYES & JAKE OWEN / “Country Stuff”
Writers: Walker Hayes/Joe Thibodeau/Adam Stark; Producer: Walker Hayes/Joe Thibodeau/Shane McAnally; Label: Monument Records
— Is this title meant to be ironic? Neither of these artists has shown much affinity for real country music. This utterly tuneless, monotonous outing doesn’t change that.

SAVANNAH KEYES / “I’m Not California”
Writers: Savannah Keyes/Blair Daly; Producer: Jason Afable; Label: SK
— Youthful, yet strong. Her singing has a striking clarity of tone and unmistakable confidence. The song is cool and hooky, too.

SAMMY KERSHAW / “Evangeline”
Writers: Bob McDill/Carson Chamberlain; Producer: none listed; Label: Kershaw
— Cajun-flavored party-tempo music. Tap your toes and smile while guitars stutter, fiddles saw and Sammy drawls his best honky-tonkin’ heartache phrasing.

ALANA SPRINGSTEEN / “California”
Writers: Alana Springsteen/Jerry Flowers/Jared Keim; Producer: Alana Springsteen/Jerry Flowers/Jared Keim; Label: none listed
— Contemporary pop-country with a sunny teen twist. Electronics mixed with acoustics. It gets old fast.

DREW GREEN / “The Rest of Our Lives”
Writers: Andrew Rollins/Drew Green/Mitch Allan/Russell Sutton; Producer: none listed; Label: Villa 40/Sony
— His singing voice is rather ordinary, but conveys sincerity. The song is a mundane romance outing.

CASSADEE POPE, KAREN FAIRCHILD & LINDSEY ELL / “What the Stars See”
Writers: Cassadee Pope/Jake Rose/Lindsay Rimes; Producer: Karen Fairchild/Nick Wheeler; Label: Awake
— The obnoxiously loud track is all rocked up, frothing, cluttered and junky. The vocals are pitched high above and piercing. I breathed a sigh of relief when it ended.

DISClaimer Single Reviews: Chris Stapleton, Elvie Shane, Drew Parker

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Chris Stapleton. Photo: Becky Fluke

There’s two-word headline for this week’s edition of DisClaimer.

Our survey of new country sounds is topped by our hands-down Disc of the Day winner, whose two words are Chris and Stapleton.

The listening session was festooned with new faces. Staging their column debuts were Triston Marez, Alexander Ludwig, Elvie Shane, Norman North and our DisCovery Award winner, Drew Parker.

CHASE BRYANT / “Upbringing”
Writers: Chase Bryant/Stephen Wilson Jr.; Producer: Chase Bryant/Jon Randall; Label: Green Iris
— The track churns and burns with a frothing, rocking energy while his urgent tenor vocal soars above. Excitement rules in this excellent production.

TRACE ADKINS / “Heartbreak Song”
Writers: Greg Crowe/Johnny Garcia/Adam Wood; Producer: Mickey Jack Cones/Derek George; Label: Verge Records
— This icon doesn’t know how to be anything but charismatic. This rolling, midtempo tune decries happy-happy, feel-good country songs and points out that sometimes ya just gotta have heartache in your audio diet. Recommended.

WALKER COUNTY / “Bits & Pieces”
Writers: Benjamin Mathis/busbee/Jon Bellion; Producer: David Garcia; Label: Warner Music Nashville
— Their scampering vocals are a delight. I love how the pinpoint, twin-like harmonies stay perfectly in place no matter how rapid-fire the delivery becomes. The song has a cool, femme attitude, too. I definitely look forward to hearing this on the radio and to hearing more from this talented duo.

CHRIS STAPLETON / “You Should Probably Leave”
Writers: Chris Stapleton/Ashley Gorley/Chris DuBois; Producer: Chris Stapleton/Dave Cobb; Label: Mercury Nashville
— The sensuous soul groove is super compelling, with laid-back guitar, funky organ and deep-blue rhythm section. It goes without saying that his vocal is stunning on this steamy ode to magnetic sexual attraction. He’s a mighty, mighty man.

ELVIE SHANE / “My Boy”
Writers: Elvie Shane/Lee Starr/Nick Columbia/Russell Sutton; Producer: Oscar Charles; Label: Wheelhouse Records
— Like all great country music, this song is nothing but emotional truth. He feels love and fatherhood for a boy who comes into his life as a stepson. Written with insight. Sung with depth. Millions will relate to this.

ALEXANDER LUDWIG / “Let Me Be Your Whiskey”
Writers: Alexander Ludwig/Mike Dulaney; Producer: Kurt Allison/Tully Kennedy; Label: BBR Music Group/BMG
— He’s the Hollywood star of Hunger Games, Vikings, Lone Survivor, Bad Boys for Life and more. But don’t hold that against him. He’s also a Real Deal country artist, as this nicely done romantic ballad demonstrates.

TRISTON MAREZ & RONNIE DUNN / “Where the Neon Lies”
Writers: Chris Duboise/Lynn Hutton/Triston Marez; Producer: David Dorn/Alex Torrez; Label: Torrez Music Group
— Triston has a smooth, solidly country delivery that’s beautifully complemented by Ronnie’s spine-tingling honky-tonk vocal burn. The twang guitars and echoey backdrop add to the single’s undeniable oomph. By all means, play it. This youngster been paying his dues in Texas and on Lower Broadway long enough and deserves his time in the spotlight.

NORMAN NORTH / “Plain Jane”
Writers: Norman North; Producer: Norman North/Lex Lipsitz; Label: Venice
— His pleading tenor is country and the backing track is hip-hop. A fascinating fusion by another Black entrant into the format.

GARY LeVOX & MERCYME / “A Little Love”
Writers: Bart Millard/Jordan Mohilowski/Ethan Hulse/Jess Cates; Producer: Jordan Mohilowski/Tedd T./Brown Bannister; Label: Big Machine Records
— The Rascal Flatts front man is issuing his debut CCM collection, One on One. Its single is a collaboration with Christian stars MercyMe and is infused with that group’s pop sensibilities. The mood here is sunny, positive and uplifting.

DREW PARKER / “While You’re Gone”
Writers: Drew Parker/Jameson Rodgers; Producer: Phil O’Donnell; Label: Warner Music Nashville
— I dig this guy. He has a powerful singing voice, and the production is epic. The song finds him sitting and drinking, knowing that she’s gone and wondering if she’s ever coming back. I’m thinking she’s history, pal, so drink up and go home. Heartache on the hoof.

TEXAS HILL / “Neon Heart”
Writers: James LeBlanc/Ryan Beaver/Mike Walker; Producer: Texas Hill; Label: Queue
— This new trio is comprised of former TV-competition stars Craig Wayne Boyd (The Voice), Casey James (American Idol) and Adam Wakefield (The Voice). They harmonize effectively on the choruses. The thin, unimaginative pop production lets them down.

SHANNON McNALLY & RODNEY CROWELL / “I Ain’t Living Long Like This”
Writers: Rodney Crowell; Producer: nShannon McNally; Label: Compass Records
— Shannon’s album is called The Waylon Sessions. Her drawling alto slips just behind the relentless beat to find a groovy pocket on this revival of a 1980 classic. The song’s Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame writer jumps in for a personality-packed third verse. The track kicks butt. She also has videos of “Black Rose” and “I’ve Always Been Crazy.” This gal has the goods.

DISClaimer Single Reviews: Marty Stuart, Reba McEntire, Lauren Alaina & Jon Pardi

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Marty Stuart brings home Disc of the Day honors for “One In A Row.”

It’s country stars old and new in today’s DISClaimer column.

Despite the presence of such hot “today” acts as Kip Moore, Lauren Alaina, Jon Pardi, Brett Young, Justin Moore and Jameson Rodgers, it’s the established legends who carry the day.

Ruling the roost are Reba McEntire, Mark Collie, Joe Nichols, Terri Clark and our Disc of the Day winner—and new Country Music Hall of Fame inductee—Marty Stuart. Singing a Willie Nelson song, no less.

Everyone here has been making records for years, so we have no DISCovery Award to give.

ADAM DOLEAC / “Coulda Loved You Longer”
Writers: Adam Doleac/Casey Brown/Jesse Lee Levin; Producer: Andy Skib; Label: Arista
—Finger-snapping pop, heavy on the groove and light on the lyric.

MARK COLLIE / “The Son of a Gun”
Writers: Mark Collie/Jonathan Hensleigh; Producer: Chad Cromwell/Kenny Greenberg/Mark Collie; Label: MC
—Dramatic and forceful, this poetic outing salutes the courageous individuals who have stood their ground, been true to themselves and lived wild and free. The video salutes war veterans.

BRETT YOUNG / “Not Yet”
Writers: Brett Young, Justin Ebach, Kelly Archer; Producer: Dann Huff; Label: BMLG
—We’re in familiar Brett-romance territory here. As always, professional and listenable, if not exactly ground breaking.

KIP MOORE / “Good Life”
Writers: Kip Moore/Dan Couch/Jay Joyce; Producer: Jay Joyce; Label: MCA Nashville
—Very cool sounding. The rump-shaking rhythms and double-tracked, spoken/shouted/sung vocals on this jam add dandy new textures to this artist’s sound. Get up and bop around the room.

ASHLEY MONROE / “Groove”
Writers: Aaron Raitiere/Ashley Monroe/Mikey Reaves; Producer: Mikey Reaves; Label: Mountainrose
—The stacked vocal harmonies in this lustrous production are lovely. The single continues this former country standout’s exploration of the pop-music landscape.

JUSTIN MOORE / “Straight Outta the Country”
Writers: Michael Hardy/Cam Montgomery/Josh Thompson; Producer: Jeremy Stover; Label: Valory
—It’s the one with the rock guitars about the hard-working redneck party boy out in the sticks. Been here. Done that. Bought the t-shirt.

JOE NICHOLS / “Home Run”
Writers: Ashley Gorley/Dallas Davidson/Ross Copperman; Producers: Mickey Jack Cones/Derek George; Label: Quartz Hill
—He remains a superb country singer. It’s almost baseball season, but despite its title, this irresistibly rhythmic tune isn’t about that. It’s about doing a run back to your family, your roots, your innocence and your home. Well worth your spins.

JAMESON RODGERS / “In It for the Money”
Writers: Jameson Rodgers/Jake Mitchell/Hunger Phelps/Brent Anderson; Producers: Chris Farren/Jake Mitchell; Label: Columbia/River House
—This is the title tune of the new EP by this shooting star, and it’s a doozy. His soulful rasp is effectively applied to this terrific lyric about what life is like as a country troubadour. The collection also includes “Cold Beer Calling My Name,” “Good Dogs” and “Some Girls.” Get it now.

REBA McENTIRE / “Somehow You Do”
Writers: Diane Warren; Producer: Tony Brown; Label: Rockin’ R/UMG
—In this slow-waltz ballad, Reba offers balm and comfort to people everywhere who are suffering and struggling in grief, difficulty, tough times and loss. Powerful stuff.

TERRI CLARK / “The Highway”
Writer: Holly Williams; Producer: Terri Clark; Label: Baretrack
—She yearns for the road. Don’t we all? Nicely written and performed with sincerity.

LAUREN ALAINA & JON PARDI / “Getting Over Him”
Writers: Emily Lynn Weisband/Lauren Alaina Suddeth/Paul Charles Digiovanni; Producer: Paul DiGiovanni; Label: Mercury
—A rollicking duet about using a no-strings hookup as a remedy for heartbreak. Full of personality.

MARTY STUART / “One In a Row”
Writers: Willie Nelson; Producer: none listed; Label: MS
—Gorgeous. Marty takes this Willie gem into a Latin realm with swirls of strings, guitars and keyboards. His umber shaded baritone vocal is given just a touch of echo to make the whole thing even more compelling. The track is from Songs I Sing in the Dark, a stunning new collection by this new Country Music Hall of Famer. Also check out his timely remake of “Ready for the Times to Get Better.”

DISClaimer Single Reviews: Charlie Worsham, Keith Urban, Hailey Whitters

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Charlie Worsham. Photo: Jason Myers

Vets and babies coexist in today’s roundup of new country tunes.

The Oaks, Lisa Brokop and Keith Burns all have sounds that stand alongside Sarah Jane Nelson, Forrest Finn and our DisCovery Award winner, Zach Bryan.

In a hard-charging contest among Hailey Whitters with Jordan Davis, Keith Urban with Breland, Brokop and Filmore, the multi-talented Charlie Worsham wins the Disc of the Day with his “Fist Through This Town.”

FORREST FINN / “How Do You Break a Heart”
Writers: Thomas Archer/Lalo Guzman/Nick Boyd; Producer: Forrest Finn; Label: New Lost City
— Breathy, R&B flavored vocal, plus finger snaps, electronic track and sing-songy melody. Attractive, if not exactly your daddy’s country music.

CRAIG CAMPBELL / “Good Things Come to Those Who Drink”
Writers: Craig Campbell/Mark Holman/James McNair; Producer: none listed; Label: Grindstone
— The track is too loud and busy. But the rollicking song and his good-time performance are both right on the money. Raise a glass and shake your booty.

SARAH JANE NELSON / “Smile Pretty”
Writers: Sarah Jane Nelson; Producer: Jamie Tate/Sarah Jane Nelson; Label: none listed
—Dark and moody, this ballad about a rape rings with resonance and authenticity. Her alto delivery and the beautifully mixed production both bolster the lyric perfectly. Sarah Jane and her song will be featured on Saturday (April 24) at a benefit for Nashville’s Sexual Assault Center. The gig is 4-6 p.m. at the fabulous Dee’s Country Cocktail Lounge, and she’ll be joined by Mary Gauthier (who has a new book), Alice Wallace, Jaimee Harris, Kenny Foster, The HawThorns and Caitlin Cannon.

CHARLIE WORSHAM / “Fist Through This Town”
Writers: Charlie Worsham/Jeremy Spillman/Travis Meadows; Producer: Jay Joyce; Label: Warner Music Nashville
— Super powerful. The track throbs with visceral strength. His searing guitar solo lifts off the top of your head. His singing gains in intensity and passion as the production builds to a crescendo. Most important, the hard-times lyric and its blue-collar attitude grab you by your coat lapels and command you to pay heed. Brilliance all around.

RHONDA TOWNS / “Walking in Your Wonderful Light”
Writers: Teddy Hayes; Producer: Billy Sherrill/Rhonda Towns; Label: none listed
— Rhonda was in the vanguard of the swell of Black country artists who have appeared during the past couple of years. Her comeback single is a light, airy, pop-inspirational ditty with a gentle innocence and sweet affection.

KEITH URBAN, BRELAND & NILE RODGERS / “Out The Cage”
Writers: Sean Small/Daniel Breland/Keith Urban/Sam Sumser; Producer: Keith Urban/Sam Sumser/Sean Small; Label: Capitol Records Nashville
— Zippy and zesty track overlaid with scampering vocals, empowering rapid-fire lyrics and fleet-fingered guitar work. Inventive and imaginative. Energetic, to say the least.

HAILEY WHITTERS & JORDAN DAVIS / “The Ride”
Writers: Ben West/Hailey Whitters/Hillary Lindsey; Producer: Jake Gear/Ben West/Hailey Whitters; Label: Pigasus/Big Loud/Songs & Daughters
— This terrific talent has an updated album, The Dream: Living the Dream Deluxe. It features collaborations with Little Big Town, Brent Cobb, Trisha Yearwood and Lori McKenna, as well as this rolling, utterly enchanting outing with Mr. Davis. Hooky as well as meaningful. You need this woman’s music in your life.

THE OAK RIDGE BOYS / “Life Is Beautiful”
Writers: Colin Linden/Kevin Moore; Producer: Dave Cobb; Label: Lightning Rod
— Lovely and uplifting. The magical, echoey audio atmosphere makes the spare, piano-and-rhythm-section arrangement seem like a wonderland. The message could not be more healing.

ZACH BRYAN / “Heading South”
Writers: Zach Bryan; Producer: Leo Alba; Label: Warner Records
— His urgent, online, acoustic, lo-fi, guitar-vocal performance of this poetic story song evidently made this active-duty Navy ordnanceman such a viral sensation that he’s earned a deal with Warner and a guest appearance on the Opry. A preview of stardom?

FILMORE / “Used to Be”
Writers: Filmore/Geoff Warburton/Brandon Day/Andy Albert; Producer: Zach Abend; Label: Curb Records
— This guy is so cool. His sound is utterly different and ultra modern, while his songwriting is thoroughly country. I’ve loved everything he’s done to date, and this rhythmic new heartbreak track only deepens my affection for his music. Get on board.

LISA BROKOP / “Is It Me and You”
Writers: Harley Hatcher; Producer: Harley Hatcher; Label: Amersong
— The ‘90s Canadian country thrush returns with a propulsive, dancefloor rocker that features a newly assertive vocal style. Her throaty delivery here has loads of moxie and emotional maturity. Arguably the most potent single of her career to date.

KEITH BURNS / “Tryin’ Times”
Writers: none listed; Producer: none listed; Label: KB
— This vet of Trick Pony and Burns & Poe goes solo with this gentle meditation on faith, turbulence, hope and perseverance. Easy does it.

DISClaimer Single Reviews: Tim McGraw, Brian Kelley, Lanco, Kat & Alex

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Tim McGraw. Photo: Robby Klein

Country’s big boys are strutting their stuff in today’s edition of DisClaimer.

And at what better time, with the ACM Awards set to air on Sunday night? So Luke Bryan, Lanco, Brian Kelley of FGL, Thomas Rhett and Jameson Rodgers are on tap with new songs. They are all bested by a superstar veteran, Tim McGraw, who nails down the Disc of the Day award.

This is a male-dominated stack of sounds, but there are three female voices worth your attention this week. One of them is the enduringly great Miranda Lambert, singing with Jack Ingram and Jon Randall and recorded in the great outdoors. Secondly, don’t miss the fiery Maggie Rose performance.

Third is our DisCovery Award winning duo Kat & Alex. Kat Luna sings lead on “Heartbreak Tour.” Partner Alex Garrido shines just a brightly on “You and the Radio.” Here’s a sweet touch: The eliminated American Idol alumni were married in January.

JAMESON RODGERS / “Good Dogs”
Writers: Jameson Rodgers/Hunter Phelps/Jake Mitchell/Brent Anderson; Producer: Chris Farren/Jake Mitchell; Label: River House Artists/Columbia Nashville
— For doggie lovers everywhere. It’s a raspy-voiced, slow meditation on life and mortality that concludes “good dogs don’t live long enough.”

THOMAS RHETT / “Country Again”
Writers: Thomas Rhett/Zach Crowell/Ashley Gorley; Producer: Dann Huff/Jesse Frasure; Label: Valory Music Co.
— He went Hollywood, but now he’s back to drinking beer, hunting, fishing, wearing boots, going to church, loving his honey, sitting at a campfire and hanging out in Tennessee. Ho hum.

KARISSA ELLA / “Maybe It Was Memphis”
Writers: Michael James Anderson; Producer: Zach Farnum & Karissa Ella; Label: Orchard/117 Entertainment
— The acoustic production is admirable. But her vocal performance is sharp and pitch-y. It doesn’t help that she’s asking for comparison to a Pam Tillis oldie that was a dang-near perfect record the first time around.

KAT & ALEX / “Heartbreak Tour”
Writers: Alex Georgia/Kat Georgia; Producer: Brad Hill; Label: Sony Music Nashville
— They are billed as “Country-Latin disrupters,” whatever that means. All I know is that the sound is very cool. Their harmonies are stellar. The production is echoey-groovy. The chorus is one massive hook. Turn it up. I’m in. Also check out their super rhythmic and equally hooky “You and the Radio.”

MANNY BLU / “Train”
Writers: Jessi Alexander/Ryan Beaver/JT Harding; Producer: Aaron Eshuis; Label: MB
— It’s a frothing rocker with loads of energy and sizzle. He’s asking for her love to “hit me like a train.” The rhythm section and electric guitar kick serious butt behind his youthful wail.

TIM McGRAW / “God Moves the Pen”
Writers: James Slater/Tony Lane; Producer: Byron Gallimore/Tim McGraw; Label: Big Machine Records
— Awesome. This man is a superstar for a reason. Is there anyone else in country music who chooses superb songs this consistently? This brisk tempo outing is a string of terrific lines about love and the act of writing. What a wonderfully satisfying country artist.

JACK INGRAM, MIRANDA LAMBERT, JON RANDALL / “Am I Right or Amarillo”
Writers: Jack Ingram/Miranda Lambert/Jon Randall; Producer: Jack Ingram/Miranda Lambert/Jon Randall; Label: Vanner Records/RCA Records Label Nashville
— Acoustic bliss with outdoor trio harmonies. It’s a honky-tonk cheatin’ song dressed up like a folk tune. Lovely listening. The Marfa Tapes album by these three stellar tunesmiths drops on May 7.

LANCO / “First Beer”
Writers: Brandon Lancaster/Tripp Howell/Jaren Johnson; Producer: Dann Huff; Label: Arista Nashville
— I fell in love with this right away. The nostalgic lyric is extremely well written, and the echoey, upbeat audio setting is perfect for the wistful mood. This act never disappoints.

BRIAN KELLEY / “Beach Cowboy”
Writers: Blake Redferrin/Brian Kelley/Jake Rose; Producer: Brian Kelley/Corey Crowder/Jake Rose; Label: Nashville South Records Inc/Warner Music Nashville
— Mellow, like summer in the Southern sun. The repetitive song is slim pickin’s, but this outing is all about the groove. Get baked and lay back stoned.

LUKE BRYAN / “Waves”
Writers: Zach Crowell/Ryan Hurd/Chase McGill; Producer: Jeff Stevens/Jody Stevens; Label: Capitol Records Nashville
— Highly evocative. It will bring back memories of every beach-spent summer of your youth while the swirling rhythm and anthemic production dazzle your brain today. Bryan’s vocal is one of the most passionate of his career.

CARL RAY / “I Can See Clearly Now”
Writers: Johnny Nash; Producer: none listed; Label: CRW
— Black country singer Carl Ray (Williams) was mentored by the late Johnny Nash, who gave him his start. Ray takes Nash’s million-selling 1972 reggae-tinged pop chart topper, adds his own lyric contributions and reinterprets the tempo to become a country rocker. Intriguing. And the message of hope is timeless.

MAGGIE ROSE / “What Are We Fighting For”
Writers: Alex Haddad/Larry Florman/Maggie Rose; Producer: Ben Tanner; Label: Starstruck
— I remain a massive fan of this blue-eyed soul stylist. This torrid, slow-burn performance is equal parts gospel emotion and blues ambiance. The woman should be some kinda superstar.

DISClaimer Single Reviews: Logan Mize, Chrissy Metz, Canaan Smith, Chevel Shepherd

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Logan Mize. Photo: John Shearer

Today belongs to country’s newcomers and baby acts.

First timers to DisClaimer include John PayCheck, Sydney Mack and our DisCovery Award winner, Timmy Brown.

One of our up-and-comers goes home with the Disc of the Day prize. That’s the endearing Logan Mize with his coming-of-age tune “Practice Swing.”

JACKSON MICHELSON / “Tip Jar”
Writers: Jackson Michelson/Patrick Mencel/Justin Morgan; Producer: Jeff Pardo; Label: MCC/Curb
— If the tunes keep playing, maybe he’ll get over her. The sound here is a funky kinda pop with barroom country sentiments. Fresh and innovative.

CHRISSY METZ / “Girl Go”
Writers: Chrissy Metz/Dan Fernandez/Faren Rachels/Lainey Wilson; Producer: Jimmy Robbins/Derek Wells; Label: EMI Records Nashville
— The This Is Us star comes up to bat again, this time with a punchy, feisty, female-empowerment country rocker. Strong and catchy. Give her your spins.

TIMMY BROWN / “If You Were Here”
Writers: Timmy Brown/Joshua Gleave; Producer: Josh Gleave; Label: Independent
— This guy is a big favorite in New England, voted Male Artist of the Year in that region for five years straight. This resonant, nicely shaded production finds his hearty, charismatic baritone musing on the loss of a loving father. I think he has the goods.

CHEVEL SHEPHERD / “Good Boy”
Writers: Kellys Collins/Bill Luther; Producer: Todd Tidwell; Label: Country Sweetheart
— The soprano delivery of this 2018 winner of NBC-TV’s The Voice struck me as a little piercing at first, but youthful sincerity and heart carry the day. The lyric pleads for her Mama to love and understand her boyfriend. This teen delivers like a pro here. Keep your ears on her.

CANAAN SMITH / “Sweet Virgina”
Writers: Canaan Smith/Brian Kelley/Tyler Hubbard/Corey Crowder; Producer: Canaan Smith/Brian Kelley/Tyler Hubbard; Label: Round Here Records
— Laid back and mellow, with a wistful lyric about the gal he leaves behind back home. Sweetly relaxing.

TERRI CLARK / “The Highway”
Writers: Holly Williams; Producer: Terri Clark; Label: Baretrack/Orchard
— Ya gotta love this. It’s about how much a musician misses the road, misses the shows, misses the people and misses her life. And it has hooks to spare.

LOGAN MIZE “Practice Swing”
Writers: Randy Montana/Blake Chaffin; Producer: Daniel Agee; Label: Big Yellow Dog
— Holy moly, what a song. It’s a chesty, anthemic thumper about what it feels like to be reckless and 17 and trying your wings. Its truth hits you like a ton of bricks. I’ve always dug this guy, and never more so than now. A gem of a single.

BROTHERS OSBORNE / “I’m Not for Everyone”
Writers: John Osborne/TJ Osborne/Luke Dick/Natalie Hemby; Producer: Jay Joyce; Label: EMI Records Nashville
— I love these guys. This drawling, lightly humorous outing is packed with cool images in its misfit message. As usual, the production, vocal oomph, guitar hooks and audio charisma are unmistakable. Play, play, play it.

SYDNEY MACK / “Pretty Boy”
Writers: Sydney Mack/Wade Kirby/Shane Minor; Producer: none listed; Label: Sydy Wall Music
— She has an attractive, throaty alto that caresses the ear quite attractively. Her well-crafted song is a cautionary message to a ladies man. A crystal-clear production supports her perfectly. Recommended.

JOHN PAYCHECK / “Lone Stars”
Writers: John PayCheck/Scott Gabbey; Producer: Bill Mcdermott; Label: HorseBite
— His father was one of the greatest honky-tonk singers of ‘em all. This PayCheck faces an impossible comparison. Of course, he’s not nearly as soulful as his pop. But he gets points for trying with this frisky toe tapper.

DISClaimer Single Reviews: Maddie & Tae, Brandy Clark, Georgia Webster

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It’s a country-music Ladies’ Day here at DisClaimer.

Women are making a lot of the most interesting music in this genre these days, and today’s listening session was a good illustration of that.

It is not even a single, but Brandy Clark wins the Disc of the Day prize for her extraordinarily moving “Remember Me Beautiful.” It is is for everyone who has had to say farewell to Mom.

If you must have a bona fide single release for the week’s Disc award, give it to Maddie & Tae for their sprightly, feisty “Woman You Got.”

The DisCovery Award also goes to a female artist. That would be Georgia Webster, who is definitely a highly promising new talent around these parts.

AUSTIN TOLLIVER / “Yodelay You Down”
Writers: Austin Tolliver/Chase J.; Producer: Maxim Laskavy; Label: Average Joes Entertainment
— It has both a delightful twang and a can’t miss dance-floor beat. Electronics and acoustics combine for a highly infectious, imaginative track. Just one question: Should you build a song around the word “yodelay” when you can’t yodel?

ASHLEY McBRYDE / “Shut Up Sheila (live)”
Writers: Nicolette Hayford/Charles Chisholm; Producer: none listed; Label: Warner Music Nashville
— This has been a favorite of mine in her catalog ever since the first time I heard it. This live version amps it up into a barn burner. One of the all-time coolest—and most offbeat—country songs about a funeral.

TYLER BRADEN / “What Do They Know”
Writers: Tyler Braden/Aaron Scherz; Producer: Randy Montana; Label: Warner Music Nashville
— This uplifting fist pumper is about chasing your dreams, no matter how discouraging those around might be. Braden alternates conversational verses with top-of-his-range vocal soaring on the choruses. Very effective.

HUNTER HAYES / “If You Change Your Mind”
Writers: Hunter Hayes/Johnluke Lewis/Rachel Braig; Producer: Hunter Hayes/Ruslan Odnoralov; Label: LP Entertainment
— Kinda pop. Kinda “teen.” Kinda slick. Kinda generic.

SCOOTER BROWN BAND / “Country At All”
Writers: Scott E. Brown/Tim Montana; Producer: Scooter Brown & Zach Farnum; Label: 117 Entertainment/Orchard
— This slow moving, almost plodding, ditty calls out contemporary “country” for straying too far from good ole boys, outlaws and three chords and the truth. Putting a bit more tempo to it would have made it hit harder.

BRANDY CLARK / “Remember Me Beautiful”
Writers: Liz Rose/Brandy Clark/Hillary Lindsey/Lori McKenna; Producer: Jay Joyce; Label: Warner Records
— Brandy introduced this on the Opry last weekend, and it left me speechless with tears on my face. It’s a track from the Deluxe edition of her Grammy-nominated Your Life Is a Record CD, which was already a perfect album. Now it’s super perfect. This powerfully emotional gem could become an everlasting anthem for every Mama’s funeral.

ANDREW JANNAKOS / “Wine Country”
Writers: Andrew Jannakos/Jason Afable/Eric Mallon/Alex Pennington Smith; Producer: Derek Wells; Label: RCA Nashville
— This is a warm, low-key, drowsy romantic ballad with an intimate vocal performance. Relaxing in the extreme. Raise a glass or pass out. Your call.

JOHN SCHNEIDER / “Born at a Truck Stop”
Writers: Jacob Lyda/Brian Maher/Bill Shore; Producer: none listed; Label: BFD/Audium
— Actor/singer Schneider’s upcoming album will benefit trucker charities. This toe-tapper from the concept CD boasts plenty of twanging electric guitar and a dandy lyric. A good-time, gospel-tinged rouser.

GEORGIA WEBSTER / “Push & Pull”
Writers: Georgia Webster; Producer: Paul DiGiovanni; Label: River House Artists/Sony Music Nashville
— Enchanting. Her sweet/tart soprano has folk overtones and hidden strength. The production is a nicely layered acoustic thumper. In the lyric, she’s just gotta get outta this relationship, pal, while she still has feelings for you. Send more.

MADDIE & TAE / “Woman You Got”
Writers: Maddie Font/Taylor Kerr/Laura Veltz/Mark Holman; Producer: Derek Wells/Jimmy Robbins; Label: Mercury Nashville
— The duo kicks off their 2021 with a groove-saturated, upbeat, joyous celebration of womanly things. She’s a steadfast lover, a doll collector, a risk-taking wild child, a mess maker, a non-cook, an emotional roller coaster and a multifaceted kook. All to a crazy-good beat.

KYLE ELLIOTT / “Come On Over”
Writers: Kyle Elliott; Producer: none listed; Label: KE
— He has a luxuriously rich baritone that he puts to good advantage on this hooky, well-produced, midtempo romantic outing. Promising.

JUSTIN MOORE / “She Ain’t Mine No More”
Writers: Justin Moore/Paul DiGionvanni/Jamie Paulin/Jeremy Stover; Producer: Jeremy Stover; Label: Valory
— “We Didn’t Have Much” remains the current single. This new track is a second sneak peek at his upcoming album Straight Outta the Country. It’s rolling ride down Heartbreak Highway with plenty of oomph and drive. Highly recommended.