DISClaimer Single Reviews: Chris Young Delivers Smoldering New Track

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Chris Young. Photo: John Shearer

Vintage artists vie with contemporary country acts today in DISClaimer.

Wade Hayes, Sawyer Brown and Billy Dean are still singing fine. But so are Brian Kelley, Gabby Barrett and Chris Young. Mr. Young easily takes home a Disc of the Day award for his stunning “Right Now” performance.

Lizzie No is one of three Black country stylists in today’s column. She competes for a DISCovery Award alongside Jessie G and The Castellows. In a tough, all-female contest, The Castellows earn the honor.

BRITTNEY SPENCER/ “Night In”
Writers: Brittney Spencer/Jessica Cayne/Summer Overstreet; Producer: Daniel Tashian; Label: Elektra
– It’s a delightfully catchy pop track with Brittney coyly suggesting that she’d rather curl up on the couch, get high with friends and chill as a “home girl” instead of doing another night on the town. The beats are crunchy and the personality is charming.

CHRIS YOUNG / “Right Now”
Writers: Chris Young/Chris DeStefano/Josh Hoge/Paul DiGiovanni; Producers: Chris Young/Chris DeStefano; Label: Sony Music Nashville
– Magnificent. He’s carrying a torch so hot that the whole track smolders. While percussion throbs and guitars cry, one of our greatest current country singers yearns for her in a lonely well of desire. Play it again.

SAWYER BROWN / “Nashville Cat”
Writer: Mark Miller; Producers: Mark Miller/Blake Shelton; Label: Curb Records
– The band is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year with a documentary titled Get Me to Stage on Time and a forthcoming album. The latter’s advance track is this characteristic rocker asking an “uptown girl” for a lively date. A classic Sawyer Brown bopper.

REYNA ROBERTS / “One Way Street”
Writers: Natalie Stovall/Reyna Roberts/Aaron Wagner; Producer: Aaron Wagner; Label: Empire
– This track from her new Bad Girl Bible collection finds Roberts singing at the tippy-top of her vocal range on a somewhat slogging, aimless ballad. She can do better, and has.

BILLY DEAN / “Never Back Down”
Writers: Billy Dean/Hugh Van Landingham/Cody Van Landingham; Producer: none listed; Label: BD
– This has been announced as Florida governor Ron DeSantis’ presidential campaign theme song. It’s a flag-waving string of phrases calling for everyone to rise up who is “tired of the same old crowd.” Oh, I almost forgot: The track has “USA, USA, USA” chanting, too.

LIZZIE NO / “Annie Oakley”
Writer: Lizzie No; Producers: Lizzie No/Graham Richman/Patrick Dillett; Label: Thirty Tigers/Miss Freedomland
– She is a Black Opry showcaser and a folk-music podcaster with a new album titled Halfsies that drops on Jan. 19. Its single is a road song that questions both the journey and the destination. Acoustic guitar strumming accompanies her languid vocal at first, and then the track builds in complexity and intensity. Drums pound the creation home. Definitely worth a listen.

BRIAN KELLEY / “Trucks, Ducks, Bucks & Beer”
Writers: none listed; Producer: Dann Huff; Label: Big Machine
– This one is an upbeat outdoor sportsman’s anthem about huntin’ and fishin.’ It is also his best vocal performance to date.

GABBY BARRETT / “You’re My Texas”
Writers: Gabby Barrett/Miranda Lambert/Hillary Lindsey; Producers: Ross Copperman/Gabby Barrett; Label: Warner
– Utterly enchanting. Her dreamy performance is saturated with romance and comfort. Wafting background-vocal sighs and steady, chopping guitar licks color the ballad’s production, while the lyric conjures pastoral images. Highly recommended.

WADE HAYES / “Old Country Still Rocks”
Writer: Wade Hayes; Producer: Wade Hayes; Label: Conabor
– Wade sings the praises of Willie, Waylon, Haggard, Bocephus, Brooks & Dunn, Loveless, Diffie, Travis, Strait, Tritt, Chesnutt and other vintage stylists on this snappy country rocker with stuttering guitar and scampering fiddle.

JESSIE G & GRETCHEN WILSON / “Like My Whiskey”
Writers: Jessica Goergen/Matthew Hundley; Producers: Jessie G/Gretchen Wilson; Label: MusicCred
– Jessie is Gretchen’s protégée. The older star urged Jessie to move from Oregon to Music City and has been guiding her progress. Their debut collaboration is a pile-driving country rocker in praise of wild times. “I like my men like I like my whiskey,” they warble over and over again as the band kicks up dust.

THE CASTELLOWS / “A Little Goes a Long Way”
Writers: Eleanor Balkcom/Lily Balkcom/Powell Balkcom/Natalie Hemby; Producer: Trina Shoemaker; Label: Warner
– This sister trio will drop its debut EP in February. This is its title tune, a lilting, breezy outing showcasing the blonde Georgia siblings’ pitch-perfect harmony singing. Their musical goodness also shines on the bopping, nostalgic “No. 7 Road,” which is now airing on CMT.

DISClaimer Single Reviews: Drew Holcomb & The Neighbors’ New Tune Is ‘Deeply Affecting’

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Drew Holcomb & The Neighbors

Happy New Year from DISClaimer.

I can think of no better way to begin 2024 than with an overview of what’s current in the land of Americana music. Plenty, as it turns out.

Many of the biggest stars of the genre have offerings—Jason Isbell, Emmylou Harris, Willie Nelson, Jimmy Buffett, Sheryl Crow. But the Disc of the Day goes to a guy who’s been in the trenches for years, but never received their level of fame. It’s “Way Back When,” a marvelous outing from Drew Holcomb and his band The Neighbors. It’s bound to warm your spirits on a winter day.

The DISCovery Award goes to MAJOR. He’ll be spending part of this winter in Music City collaborating with our songwriters for the tracks on a new album. If the rest of his music is as fine as his excellent single, I offer a hearty welcome.

DR. JOHN & AARON NEVILLE / “End of the Line”
Writers: Bob Dylan/George Harrison/Jeff Lynne/Roy Orbison/Tom Petty; Producers: Malcom John Rebennack, Jr/Shane Theriot; Label: Rounder
– Country-loving Aaron Neville teamed up with the late Dr. John on this cover of The Traveling Wilburys tune. The good news is that the track sounds nothing like the Wilbury original version. The bad news is that the angelic-voiced Neville takes a definite back seat. The unusual listening experience is on the current, posthumously released Dr. John album Things Happen This Way.

MAJOR. / “Joy in the Battle”
Writer: Joaquin Bynum; Producer: Joaquin Bynum; Label: MNRK Music
– One of the cool things about Americana is that it brings together all kinds of roots music styles—classic country, blues, Cajun, bluegrass, folk and, in this case, soul. The track is an uplifting shout of affirmation, driven by ebullient energy. It already has 105K streams on Spotify, and has picked up endorsements from Sting, Oprah, Kelly Clarkson, Ariana Grande, Jennifer Hudson and Stevie Wonder. I see no reason why it can’t go even further. Infectious and positive. MAJOR. showcases at The Basement on Jan. 9 at 7 p.m. It’s a free industry showcase, so get on board.

EMMYLOU HARRIS / “Love Wore a Halo”
Writer: Nanci Griffith; Producer: Buddy Miller; Label: Rounder
– More Than a Whisper is the tribute album to the late, great Nanci Griffith. Emmylou, the Queen of Americana, has its single, and it’s a beauty. Acoustic instruments swirl around a concertina, a twang guitar and a snare while the singer weaves her magic spell. Essential listening.

NOAH KAHAN / “Everywhere Everything”
Writer: Noah Kahan; Producers: Gabe Simon/Noah Kahan; Label: Republic
– This folkie is nominated for Best New Artist at the Grammys. He’s been collaborating with Kacey Musgraves, Post Malone, Joy Oladokun, Hozier, Zach Bryan and more stellar people. This track is drawn from Stick Season, the breakthrough album that earned him his nomination. Things start off innocent and guitar strum-y then build into intense rocking choruses that describe young love in the most weirdly morbid way.

CHARLEY CROCKETT & WILLIE NELSON / “That’s What Makes the World Go Around”
Writers: Charley Crockett/Kullen Fox/Rich Brotherton/Taylor Grace; Producers: Charley Crockett/Billy Horton; Label: CC
– This is a loping, lightly swinging two stepper. Nelson, 90, matches Crockett vocal lick for vocal lick and adds his own Trigger guitar solo. All country music should sound this cool.

AMOS LEE / “Fruits of My Labor”
Writer: Lucinda Williams; Producer: none listed; Label: Thirty Tigers
– Amos Lee has one of Americana music’s great voices. He needs only it and some spare acoustic instrumentation to bring this languid, buoyant, silky tune to life. Absolutely love this. It comes from Honeysuckle Switches, his new tribute album to his songwriting hero, Lucinda Williams.

SHERYL CROW / “Alarm Clock”
Writers: Sheryl Crow/Mike Elizondo/Emily Weisband; Producer: Mike Elizondo; Label: Valory
– The 2023 Rock n Roll Hall of Fame inductee returns to her pop-rock roots with this bopping, sunshiny winner. Back in 2018, she said she was done making albums. Which is why this advance track from her upcoming Evolution collection so surprising and so welcome. Can’t wait to hear the rest of it.

LORI McKENNA / “1988”
Writers: Brian McKenna/Lori McKenna; Producer: Dave Cobb; Label: CN/Thirty Tigers
– This woman always captivates me. The title tune of McKenna’s current album celebrates her enduring marriage with simple acoustic guitar accompaniment. There are few songwriters alive who are so heartfelt and true and few singers who can grab you this tightly. She has won CMA Song of the Year twice, for ”Girl Crush” and “Humble and Kind,” both of which also won Country Song Grammy Awards, as did “Crowded Table.” Lori McKenna is the only woman to have been named Songwriter of the Year by the ACM. Listen and believe.

JASON ISBELL & THE 400 UNIT / “White Beretta”
Writer: Jason Isbell; Producer: Jason Isbell; Label: Southeastern
– Wistful memories of regret and self recrimination color a rolling meditation. Mournful and utterly haunting. This track from Isbell’s Weathervanes collection has a new animated video that is as evocative as the abortion-themed song.

DREW HOLCOMB & THE NEIGHBORS / “Way Back When”
Writers: Drew Holcomb/Kevin Scott Rhoads; Producer: Cason Cooley; Label: Magnolia Music
– Over the course of two decades and nine albums, these folks have been a comforting constant on the Nashville music scene. The group’s current album, Strangers No More, has taken it to previously unscaled heights at festivals, on TV, in print and on the Americana charts. Holcomb’s warm baritone carries this warm, heart-tugging ballad accompanied by soft piano and strings. It’s about parenthood and the passage of time and is deeply, deeply affecting. I remain an immense fan. Always have been.

JIMMY BUFFETT / “Like My Dog”
Writers: Scotty Emerick/Harley Allen; Producers: Michael Utley/Mac McAnally; Label: Mailboat/Sun
– This is a face-filling grin from start to finish. Or at least a massive tail wag. All he wants is for his girl to love him like his dog does. The new video for this is a collaboration with the ASCPA to encourage doggie adoption, and the footage is adorable. Drawn from Buffett’s superb posthumous album Equal Strain on All Parts.

DISClaimer Single Reviews: Brenda Lee Wears Her ‘Queen Of Christmas’ Crown

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Brenda Lee. Photo: Alexa King Stone

Happy holidays from DISClaimer.

I have your Nashville Christmas playlist right here and ready to go. Do not miss the offerings by Brandy Clark, Randall King, Jon Pardi and Eric Paslay. 

Despite the abundance of quality, there is no question about who the Queen of Christmas is this year. A Disc of the Day award to Brenda Lee for her update on a timeless tune. 

MATT CASTILLO / “Christmas Without Her”
Writers: Matt Castillo/Jason Allen; Producers: Matt Castillo/Aaron Eshuis; Label: MC
– It’s heartache honky-tonk, but with a witty, light-hearted tone. He asks Santa to bring his baby back while the band rampages and twangs behind him. 

JON PARDI / “Beer For Santa”
Writers: John Thomas Hardy/Matt McKinney/Kyle Clark; Producers: Jon Pardi/Bart Butler/Ryan Gore; Label: Capitol Records Nashville
– Two-step into Christmas morning with this hillbilly romp. Pardi’s not leaving milk and cookies out for Saint Nick this year. He knows the big guy needs a brew break.

DARIN & BROOKE ALDRIDGE / “Little Saint Nick”
Writers: Brian Wilson/Mike Love; Producer: none listed; Label: Billy Blue Records
– Ear opening. The bluegrass duo takes The Beach Boys classic out for an acoustic spin with snappy fiddle, mandolin and guitar work, and all those lovely stacked vocal harmonies in place. Highly recommended. 

WYNONNA / “Beautiful Star of Bethlehem”
Writer: A.J. Phipps; Producer: Cactus Moser; Label: ANTI- Records
– Originated in 1954 by the Opry’s John Daniel Quartet and popularized by Emmylou Harris in 1980, this acoustic gem has become a perennial country Christmas favorite. Wy’s bluesy lead vocal dominates, and I wish the contrapuntal background vocals were mixed louder. 

RANDALL KING / “Silent Night”
Writers: Franz Xaver Gruber/Joseph Mohr; Producers: Randall King/Jared Conrad; Label: Warner Music Nashville
– This magnificent, stone-country baritone can make you feel warm and toasty even on the coldest holiday evenings. Guitars strum and steel sighs as he gently croons this timeless carol. Beautifully done. 

BRANDY CLARK / “My Favorite Christmas”
Writers: Brandy Clark/Shane McAnally; Producer: Jordan Hamlin; Label: Warner Records
– Wistful, melancholy and dreamy, this languidly, lovely performance deserves to take its place among the great “blue Christmas” songs that are always so touching. Also check out her equally affecting treatment of “I’ll Be Home For Christmas.” A soft reminder that the holidays can bring sad, bittersweet nostalgia to some. Clark co-wrote it with her Shucked collaborator Shane McAnally. They both earned a Grammy Award nomination for the Broadway hit.

ERIC PASLAY / “Run Rudolph Run”
Writers: Marvin Lee Brodie/Johnny Marks/Chuck Berry; Producer: Austin Moody; Label: Capitol Records Nashville
– Need some rock & rolling Christmas cheer? Step right up: Paslay takes this Chuck Berry classic at a bracing, brisk pace. You’ll be bopping around the room in no time. 

BRENDA LEE / “Rockin’ Around The Christmas Tree (Remix)”
Writer: Johnny Marks; Producer: Owen Bradley: Label: MCA Nashville
– Thumpy electronic drumming pounds away as Lee and the Nashville A-Team’s original track echoes in the background. This new remix is packaged with her (superior) 1958 rockabilly version on a new holiday EP. This year, the song made the Music City legend the oldest person in history to have a No. 1 Billboard pop hit. Lee’s 79th birthday was on Monday (Dec. 11). What a double celebration. Rock on, Little Miss Dynamite.

CHRIS JANSON / “Holiday Road”
Writer: Lindsey Buckingham; Producers: Chris Janson/Julian Raymond/Scott Borchetta/Jimmy Harnen; Label: BMLG Records
– Christmas music doesn’t get much more rocking than this frenetic bopper. Joyous sounding. 

T. GRAHAM BROWN / “Santa’s Got His Baby Something Good”
Writers: Billy Lawson/Cyril Rawson/Cyril Robinson/Monroe Hill; Producer: none listed; Label: TGB
– How about an old-school blues track for Christmas? Mr. Brown lays down a dandy one with this drawling, down-home, sexy retro ditty. 

BREI CARTER / “Old Fashion Christmas”
Writers: Aly Cutter/David Norris/Corey Lee Barker; Producers: Brei Carter/Jason Wyatt; Label: Brown Lee Entertainment/The Orchard
– Carter’s Twinkling Tales of Christmas album contains this enchanting, minor-key ballad. The key changes are tricky, but she floats through them with ease. Jazzy, late-night, closing-time listening.

UNCLE KRACKER / “Frosty The Snowman”
Writers: Steve Nelson/Jack Rollins; Producer: none listed; Label: UK
– Frosty gets a western-swing arrangement that comes with built-in smiles. Super enjoyable.

SCOTTY McCREERY / “Feel Like The Holidays”
Writers: Frank Rogers/Monty Criswell/Derek George/Bobby Hamrick/Jeremy Bussey; Producers: Frank Rogers/Derek Wells/Aaron Eshuis; Label: Triple Tigers
– I recommend that you start your seasonal playlist with this mellow, jazzy performance. It sets the anticipation mood perfectly. The new Opry inductee delivers it in a friendly, relaxed tone while muted horns punctuate softly in the background.

DISClaimer Single Reviews: Luke Grimes Releases ‘Relaxed, Thoughtful’ New Cover

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There are some folk music vibes in this roundup of current country tracks.

Matt Schuster, Lizzie No and Luke Grimes all have acoustic-based tunes, shining brightly amid the rocking sounds of Eddie Montgomery, Caroline Jones, Kameron Marlowe, Bigg Vinny and Brian Kelley. Also here for your listening pleasure is country rap from C’ing Jerome as well as classy country pop from The Frontmen and straight-up, old-school R&B from Robert Finley.

But the folkies ruled the day. Luke Grimes has the Disc of the Day, and Lizzie No is taking home a DISCovery Award. 

CAROLINE JONES / “Lawless”
Writers: Caroline Jones/Brandon Ratcliff/Pete Good; Producers: Caroline Jones/Brandon Hood/Ric Wake; Label: CJ
– A member of Zac Brown Band since last year, Jones also continues her solo career with a new album titled Homesite. It kicks off with this fiery country-rock blast. That’s Jones on lead guitar mixed in with her spitfire delivery. Exciting stuff. 

BRIAN KELLEY / “How We’re Livin'”
Writers: Brian Kelley/Micah Carpenter/Jimmy Robbins/Mark Trussell; Producer: Dann Huff; Label: Big Machine Records
– A big, loud, rompin,’ stompin,’ proud-to-be-country bore.

LIZZIE NO / “Annie Oakley”
Writer: Lizzie No; Producers: Lizzie No/Graham Richman/Patrick Dillett; Label: Thirty Tigers/Miss Freedomland
– Very cool. It begins with a folkie strum then builds into a crashing acoustic rocker with stacked vocal harmonies and a haunting refrain. It is a dusty, lonely-motel road song with a languid, philosophical vocal attitude. Every note fascinated me. 

EDDIE MONTGOMERY & BRYAN MARTIN / “Cost of Being Me”
Writers: Bobby Pinson/Jami Grooms/Mark McGuinn/Rusty Tabor; Producer: Nick Gibbens; Label: Average Joes Entertainment
– He spends money foolishly, which mirrors his self-destructive lifestyle. As he fritters away his life and his funds, he takes stock of his situation while guitars crunch and crash around him. The powerful singing is amplified by a frothing, foaming arrangement that amps up the emotion. I’m in.  

BIGG VINNY / “Battleground”
Writers: Vencent Hickerson/James McNair/Joe Ragosta/Marc Fortney; Producer: Skidd Mills; Label: BV
– Vencent Hickerson (Bigg Vinny), previously gained notoriety as a member of Trailor Choir and as a contestant on NBC’s The Biggest Loser (where he dropped from 426 to 242 pounds). Now returning to music, he rocks out while singing of perseverance and pride. It sounds ready-made for stadium sound systems. 

ELI YOUNG BAND & GEORGE BIRGE / “Amy’s Back In Austin”
Writers: Brady Seals/Stephen Allen Davis; Producer: Duane Propes/Brandyn Steen; Label: Records Nashville
– There is a new tribute album to the music of Little Texas. These two Lone Star State artists pull their talents on a remake of this sad, breezy 1995 hit. Capable. Sturdy. 

C’ING JEROME / “Countrified”
Writers: Chris Jerome Blanton/Virgule Marshall; Producer: Virgule Marshall; Label: Average Joes Entertainment
– It’s country rap with some goofy “wooooh” high notes wafting in the background. The slightly cheesy, relentless, spare rhythm track is also kind of quirky. Weirdly listenable.

DYLAN MARLOWE / “You See Mine”
Writers: Dylan Marlowe/Corey Crowder/Hunter Phelps; Producer: Joe Fox; Label: Sony Music Nashville
– His duet single with another Dylan (Scott) continues to climb. In the meantime, he has a new solo video of this track. It’s a mean-spirited ditty about him shadowing (stalking?) his old girlfriend when she’s out on a date with someone new. He hopes that seeing his truck will ruin her night.

KAMERON MARLOWE / “Tennessee Don’t Mind”
Writers: Charles Kelley/Daniel Tashian; Producer: Dann Huff; Label: Sony Music Nashville
– A scampering rockabilly beat rolls beneath this tempo tune. As always, Marlowe is a sterling vocalist here, hitting high notes effortlessly and wailing with fervor. 

ROBERT FINLEY / “Sneakin’ Around”
Writers: Robert Finley/Dan Auerbach/Kenny Brown/Eric Deaton/Patrick Carney; Producer: Dan Auerbach; Label: Easy Eye Sound
– Finley is a master R&B showman whose blues-soaked tunes are produced in Nashville by Dan Auerbach of The Black Keys. On this mid-tempo groove, he demonstrates how universal “cheatin'” songs can be. Also check out his ballad “Nobody Wants To Be Lonely” and his rocker “What Goes Around.” The blind, raspy-voiced songster is not a country artist, but his vivid storytelling on these tracks kind of makes you wish he was. Finley stages his Grand Ole Opry debut this Saturday evening (Dec. 9).

LUKE GRIMES / “Clay Pigeons”
Writer: Blaze Foley; Producer: Dave Cobb; Label: Mercury Nashville
– Yellowstone star Grimes continues his pursuit of country stardom with this brilliantly written folk-country outing. His relaxed, thoughtful reading of the lyric feels like he’s sitting right next you. The song comes from the late Texas tunesmith Blaze Foley. Essential listening. 

THE FRONTMEN / “I Need You”
Writers: Lindsay Rimes/Matt Rogers; Producer: Mickey Jack Cones; Label: Broken Bow Records
– This is a supergroup fronted by Richie McDonald of Lonestar, Tim Rushlow of Little Texas and Larry Stewart of Restless Heart. The trio’s six-song EP begins with this full-throated power ballad. They tag-team lead vocals, then combine their charismatic singing on chesty harmony choruses. These are some mighty singing men. Thrilling listening.

MATT SCHUSTER / “Last Fall”
Writers: Matt Schuster/Abram Dean/Emily Falvey/John Newsome; Producer: Chris LaCorte; Label: Warner Music Nashville
– Schuster continues to show immense promise. This aching, melancholy ballad of lost love hits an emotional bullseye thanks to his plaintive, penetrating tenor vocal underscored by sweetly sympathetic strings and steel. Heartbreak on the hoof. 

DISClaimer Single Reviews: Tim McGraw Delivers ‘Downright Inspirational’ New Track

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Album Art: Courtesy of Big Machine Records. Photo: Tyler Conrad

Today’s edition of DISClaimer is a “variety pack” of contemporary country sounds.

If it’s old-fashioned country sentimentality you seek, you’ll find it in “This Is My Dirt,” “The Country I Grew Up With” and the superbly written “Growin’ Up Raising You.” Headed for the dance club? Take “Neon Cowboy” with you. For a full-throated love song, try “Gonna Love You” by Parmalee. Those of you into country pop have that base covered by either Ashley Monroe or MacKenzie Porter. Our sexy outlaw du jour is Warren Zeiders.

And to hear a modern country master at work, spin “Runnin’ Outta Love” by Tim McGraw. It is the Disc of the Day. The DISCovery Award goes to Sam Grow. 

SAM GROW / “Loretta”
Writer: Johnny Gates; Producer: Sam Grow; Label: Average Joes Entertainment 
– “I miss you like the radio misses Loretta Lynn,” he mourns for his lost love. Vivid songwriting. Soulful, raspy singing. Punchy production. What’s not to love?

SAMMY KERSHAW / “On the Road Again”
Writer: Alan Wilson; Producer: Danny B. Harvey; Label: Cleopatra Records
– It’s a revival of the bluesy Canned Heat hit of 1968, and Kershaw keeps it pretty close to the original. His singing voice sounds totally untouched by time, and the harmonica blowing of producer Harvey matches him lick for lick, and then some.

WILLIE JONES & BEN BURGESS / “Dive Bar”
Writers: Willie Jones/Ben Burgess/Chris Lane/Michael Lotten; Producer: Michael Lotten; Label: The Penthouse
– This stomper sings the praises of low-rent roadhouses. Jones has always mixed hip-hop and country elements better than most, and this catchy ditty follows that pattern. He and singer Burgess vow to turn a trendy nightclub into their kinda joint. No mechanical bull, thank you very much.

JUSTIN MOORE / “This Is My Dirt”
Writers: Justin Moore/Paul DiGiovanni/Randy Montana/Jeremy Stover; Producers: Jeremy Stover/Scott Borchetta; Label: The Valory Music Co.
– A stranger approaches a farmer with an offer to buy his land to build a housing development. His reply is just what the title implies. Sentimental, but that’s what we love about country music, right?

ASHLEY MONROE / “Over Everything”
Writers: Ashley Monroe/Al Anderson/Scott Stepakoff; Producers: Ashley Monroe/Gena Johnson; Label: AM
– Wafting, echoey, ethereal and kind of magical. Her double-tracked, soft soprano is backed with slowly shuddering percussion and wooshing electronics. It ain’t all that “country,” but it is decidedly hypnotic. Lend this your ears.

TIM MCGRAW / “Runnin’ Outta Love”
Writers: Matt McGinn/Lindsay Rimes/Brad Warren/Brett Warren; Producers: Tim McGraw/Byron Gallimore; Label: Big Machine Records
– This is downright inspirational. McGraw’s solid delivery of the hope-filled lyric rides atop a splendid, galloping rhythm track that cranks the excitement up. His top-10 tally currently stands at 69. Let’s make it an even 70, shall we?

MACKENZIE PORTER / “Bet You Break My Heart”
Writers: Mark Holman/Chris Tompkins/Travis Wood; Producer: Joey Moi; Label: Big Loud Records
– Crisply produced country-pop piffle. 

BILL ANDERSON, BOBBY BARE, JIMMY FORTUNE, VINCE GILL & WILLIE NELSON / “The Country I Grew Up With”
Writers: Bill Anderson/Bobby Tomberlin/Lance Miller; Producers: Bill Anderson/Thomas Jutz; Label: MCA Nashville
– As always, Anderson is a master of heart-tugging spoken-word performance. His singing collaborators—Bare, Fortune, Gill and Nelson—are all fellow members of the Country Music Hall of Fame. I believe that is a historic first. The nostalgia in the track is palpable. 

WARREN ZEIDERS / “Sin So Sweet”
Writers: Warren Zeiders/Blake Pendergrass/Justin Ebach; Producer: Justin Ebach; Label: Warner Records
– Sexy, steaming and smoldering, this slow-burn performance is as hot as a blacksmith’s fire. Zeiders is on a roll. 

PARMALEE / “Gonna Love You”
Writers: Matt Thomas/David Fanning/Abram Dean/Andy Sheridan; Producer: David Fanning; Label: Stoney Creek Records
– Ultra romantic, super compelling and packed with oomph, this power ballad might be the band’s strongest performance yet. And that’s saying something, since the group has already topped the charts four times in the past three years. 

GABBY BARRETT / “Growin’ Up Raising You”
Writers: Gabby Barrett/Jon Nite/Zach Kale/Jimmy Robbins; Producers: Gabby Barrett/Ross Copperman; Label: Warner Music Nashville
– This is the best song about motherhood that I’ve heard in years. Every honest line is the truth, and Barrett sings with immense conviction and believability. Precious. Perfect. Essential. 

THE KENTUCKY GENTLEMEN / “Neon Cowboy”
Writers: Brandon Campbell/Derek Campbell/Paul Wrock/Andrew Capra; Producer: Andrew Capra; Label: TKG
– Few contemporary country acts understand the dancefloor better than these two do. This continues their uninterrupted streak of instantly addictive boppers. The song’s video tips its hat to the long tradition of Black rodeo culture. 

DISClaimer Single Reviews: Mickey Guyton Gives ‘A Thrilling Take’ On Tina Turner Hit

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Mickey Guyton performs Tina Turner’s “The Best” during CMT Smashing Glass: A Celebration of the Groundbreaking Women of Music. Photo: Jason Kempin/Getty Images for CMT

Country music’s men dominate this edition of DISClaimer.

Batting a thousand are Corey Kent, Randall King, Chris Stapleton, Levi Hummon and Walker Hayes, Kristian Bush, Travis Denning and Neal McCoy. 

But wait, stepping up to the plate is Mickey Guyton, and she hits an out-of-the-park home run with a thrilling take on Tina Turner’s 1989 rock hit “The Best.” Turner has left us, but this performance lights up her memory like a fireworks display. Disc of the Day.

MICKEY GUYTON / “The Best”
Writers: Mike Chapman/Holly Knight; Producer: none listed; Label: MG
– Guyton tore the house down when she paid homage to Tina Turner during yesterday (Nov. 15)’s CMT Smashing Glass female special. Honorees Tanya Tucker and Patti LaBelle rocked along joyously in the audience while she strutted through this commanding performance. If you didn’t catch it, go to YouTube right now and check it out. Star-making stuff.

NEAL MCCOY / “First Time For Everything”
Writers: Porter Howell/Dwayne O’Brien; Producers: Brandyn Steen/Duane Propes; Label: NM
– McCoy’s cover of this 1992 Little Texas oldie is pristinely produced and perfectly executed. He takes it at a slow waltz pace while guitars twang all around him. Sounding good. 

MUSTANGS OF THE WEST / “Down at the Palomino”
Writer: John Beland; Producers: Kirk Pasich/Colin Devlin; Label: Blue Élan Records
– The all-female quintet salutes the legendary California country nightclub with this sprightly bopper. Sunny and bright. 

TRAVIS DENNING / “Going Places”
Writers: Travis Denning/Paul DiGiovanni/Jeremy Stover/Matt Mulhare; Producers: Paul DiGiovanni/Jeremy Stover; Label: Mercury Nashville
– His gal leaves town to make a name for herself. In his unhappiness, he boasts that he’s going places too. Except his “places” are the neighborhood bar. Denning’s delivery is country, country, country. 

HANNAH ELLIS / “Too Much And Not Enough”
Writers: Hannah Ellis/Emily Weisband/Tofer Brown; Producers: Tofer Brown/Jason Massey; Label: Curb Records
– This closes Ellis’ new That Girl album. It’s a ballad that muses about the line a woman has to walk to balance others’ expectations and her sense of self. “Wine Country” is still the single, but this certainly adds another texture to her promising career.  

CHRIS STAPLETON / “White Horse”
Writers: Chris Stapleton/Daniel Dodd Wilson; Producers: Chris Stapleton/Morgane Stapleton/Dave Cobb; Label: Mercury Nashville
– Southern rock lives! Stapleton conjures the memory of The Allman Brothers Band on this blazing barn burner. His electrifying voice is married to sizzling guitar work and a pounding rhythm track. Sit up and take notice. 

BRITTNEY SPENCER / “Bigger Than The Song”
Writers: Brittney Spencer/Jennifer Anne Wayne/Tofer Brown; Producer: Marcus Lomax; Label: Elektra
– Spencer’s current single gets a stripped-down piano-vocal treatment in this new release. I’m down with it, because it showcases the cool lyric that name checks Reba, Aretha, Johnny & June, Janis, Dolly, Beyonce, Whitney and Alannis. 

RANDALL KING / “Hang of Hangin’ On “
Writers: Brett Sheroky/Brice Long; Producers: Randall King/Jared Conrad; Label: Warner Music Nashville
– His country baritone is wonderfully resonant and warm, and this heartbreak ballad is a terrific showcase for it. This is a simply dreamy performance. 

KRISTIAN BUSH / “House on a Beach”
Writers: Kristian Bush/Canaan Smith; Producer: none listed; Label: KB
– The Sugarland veteran has been mighty busy lately. He’s written and staged three musicals in Atlanta, produces new hitmaker Megan Moroney, is issuing a Christmas EP and dropped a 52-song set of four albums. This lovely acoustic track is a smooth, soothing float on gentle waves. Recommended.

KASSI ASHTON / “Genie In A Bottle”
Writers: David Frank/Pam Sheyne/Steve Kipner; Producers: Kassi Ashton/Oscar Charles; Label: MCA Nashville
– Moody and soulful, but this is definitely a pop artist.

LEVI HUMMON & WALKER HAYES / “Paying For It”
Writers: Levi Hummon/Walker Hayes/Eric Arjes; Producer: Eric Arjes; Label: Red Van Records
– She’s gone, but he’s still just as broke as when they were dating. “I’m still paying for it…’cause I’m drinking for two.”  Totally clever and totally cute. Essential listening. Also, I believe this is the first country lyric containing the word “wazoo.”

COREY KENT / “You Know”
Writers: Corey Kent/Austin Goodloe; Producer: Corey Kent; Label: RCA Nashville
– Kent is super charismatic here as he chronicles the chapters of a romance. I dig this guy’s simple eloquence in this acoustic gem. Get on board.

DISClaimer Single Reviews: Luke Combs ‘Keeps You On The Edge Of Your Seat’ With New Single

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Luke Combs. Photo: Jeremy Cowart

I have never been prouder to be a country fan than I was when experiencing this week’s CMA Awards telecast.

The special brought out the best and brightest talents in the genre, delivering at the peak of their powers. Kelsea Ballerini, The War And Treaty, Chris Stapleton, Luke Combs, Jordan Davis, Ashley McBryde, Morgan Wallen with Eric Church, Dan + Shay, K. Michelle with Jelly Roll, Tanya Tucker and Carly Pearce as well as Alan Jackson, Kenny Chesney, Mac McAnally and the Zac Brown Band—these were performances for the ages. If you weren’t a country fan going into the show, surely these moments would make you one. My chest was bursting.

Several songs in today’s column were in the spotlight that night. The Disc of the Day is one of them—mega-talent Combs owns it.

The DISCovery Award goes to HunterGirl, whom I met at the ASCAP party. She is an American Idol alumnus, but she needs no TV set to help her on the triumphant “Ain’t About You.”

RVSHVD / “Small Town Talk”
Writers: Clintarius Johnson/Jason Afable/Josh Logan Tangney/Matty Gibbons; Producers: Jason Afable/Dream Addix; Label: Penthouse South/Sumerian Records
– In a word, wow. Stirring and anthemic, this heart-in-throat performance celebrates everyday life in tiny-town America. He sings with marvelous sincerity, and the song could not be more authentically country. I’m in. His name, by the way, is pronounced “Ra-shad” (just turn those V’s upside down.)

TYLER HUBBARD / “A Lot With A Little”
Writers: Tyler Hubbard/Parker Welling/Casey Brown; Producers: Tyler Hubbard/Jordan Schmidt; Label: EMI Nashville
– Hubbard’s warm delivery continues to enchant. Here, he praises the simple joys of poor-folks romance. Guitars blaze brightly and the beats keep a-comin.

HUNTERGIRL / “Ain’t About You”
Writer: Tristyn Hunter Wolkonowski; Producer: Lindsay Rimes; Label: Wheelhouse Records
– Empowering and loaded with character and charisma. The ballad swells with positive vibes, and her vocal delivery has immense depth. This is a major, major new talent.

LAINEY WILSON / “Wildflowers and Wild Horses”
Writers: Lainey Wilson/Paul Sikes/Trannie Anderson; Producer: Jay Joyce; Label: Broken Bow Records
– If you had any doubts about this woman, her performance of this burning country rocker on the CMA Awards telecast erased them. And I do mean “country.” A delicious listening experience. “I’m barefoot and bareback and born tough as nails/I’m four fifths of reckless and one fifth of Jack.” You said it, sister.

ALEX MILLER / “Puttin’ Up Hay”
Writers: Alex Miller/Larry Cordle/Jerry Salley; Producer: Jerry Salley; Label: Billy Jam Records
– This snappy hillbilly rocker sizzles with hot fiddle and electric guitar. Loved his low vocal dip at the finale. 

JESSIE MURPH & JELLY ROLL / “Wild Ones”
Writers: Jessie Murph/Jason DeFord/Feli Ferraro/Gregory “Aldae” Hein/Jeff Gitelman; Producer: Jeff Gitelman; Label: Columbia
– Murph’s saucy delivery leads the way as she sings about the dark side of Saturday night. Jelly Roll keeps pace with some strategically placed hillbilly hip-hop. The track loops back on itself throughout. Is there such a thing as “alternative outlaw” music?

TRACK 45 / “When I Grow Up”
Writers: Ben Johnson/Jenna Johnson/KK Johnson/Jaida Dreyer/Jonny Price; Producers: Track45/Jason Hall; Label: Stoney Creek Records
– The angst of youth aches from every note. Their trio family harmonies on the choruses are awesome. I remain a fan.

LUKE COMBS / “Where the Wild Things Are”
Writers: Dave Turnbull/Randy Montana; Producers: Luke Combs/Chip Matthews/Jonathan Singleton; Label: River House Artists/Columbia Nashville
– What a voice. This is a mighty, mighty country-music man. And perhaps never more so than on this punchy rocker about a man who follows his big brother to Hollywood. Right up to the death scene, his gripping delivery keeps you on the edge of your seat. A simply brilliant performance of a titanically well-written song. He justifiably stopped the show with this at the CMA Awards.

KEITH ANDERSON / “Pickup Truck”
Writers: Ben Hayslip/Dallas Davidson/Thomas Rhett Akins; Producer: none listed; Label: ONErpm
– This enduringly good fellow has plenty of gas in his tank as he takes this high-octane rocker out for a spin. “You don’t need a pickup line if you’ve got a pickup truck.” Rock on, bro. 

MORGAN WALLEN & ERIC CHURCH / “Man Made A Bar”
Writers: Brett Tyler/Larry Fleet/Rocky Block/Jordan Dozzi; Producer: Joey Moi; Label: Big Loud Records/UMG Nashville
– Charisma on the hoof. Individually, they are two of the finest singers we have. Together on this splendidly written ode, they are undeniable. This, my friends, is real country music.

KARLEY SCOTT COLLINS / “Heavy Metal”
Writers: Karley Scott Collins/KK Johnson/Sam Backoff; Producers: Karley Scott Collins/Nathan Chapman; Label: Sony Music Nashville
– Her ear-catching, piercing, resonant voice is set in an echoey, stripped-down track. This gives extra punch to the lyric of a gal trapped in a dead-end marriage.

LUKE GRIMES / “Burn”
Writers: Luke Grimes/Randy Montana/Josh Thompson; Producer: Dave Cobb; Label: Mercury Nashville/Range Music
– If romance with her means pain, bring it on, says Grimes. As always, he sings with great conviction. The track has a faintly western-cowboy vibe.

DISClaimer Single Reviews: Brad Paisley Gives ‘Enormously Sincere Vocal Performance’

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Brad Paisley. Photo: Jim Shea

This edition of DISClaimer is a celebration of songwriting. 

Country music is built on song craftsmanship, and today, we have a number of examples of the artform at its finest. In various ways, “Prenup,” “Find Another Bar,” “The Medicine Will,” “Sweet Southern Comfort” and “The Table” represent this. So does “To Be A Man,” which translates easily into the country genre.

The Disc of the Day is unquestionably Brad Paisley’s “The Medicine Will.” This is topical country music at its most powerful.

The DISCovery Award goes to Leah Turner, for her Latin-tinged outing. It is a duet with Jerrod Niemann, and several of the day’s other outstanding platters are collaborations—Nicolle Galyon & Rodney Clawson, DAX with Darius Rucker, Shy Carter and Frank Ray and Buddy Jewell with his celebrity pals. Carry on. 

LOGAN MIZE / “Out of State Plates”
Writers: Logan Mize/Daniel Agee/Kyle Shurrock; Producer: Daniel Agee; Label: Big Yellow Dog Music
– It’s a road song, but maybe not at the drag racing speed you might expect. Instead, it’s a breezy drive on a country lane. I love the spare production with its finger snaps and twang guitar. Very refreshing.

ERNEST / “Kiss Of Death”
Writers: Ernest Keith Smith/Andy Albert/Ryan Vojtesak; Producer: Joey Moi; Label: Big Loud Records
– This lively, tasteful country rocker zips right along as the singer describes a femme fatale who has captured his heart. The beats never overwhelm his vocal, and the emphasis is on acoustics, which is fine with me. Ernest is racking up one hit after another, and is heading for a two-night stand at the Ryman on Nov. 28-29. 

LAUREN WATKINS / “The Table”
Writers: Lauren Watkins/Nicolle Galyon/Brad Warren/Brett Warren; Producer: Joey Moi; Label: Big Loud Records/Songs & Daughters
– This gifted singer-songwriter unspools a melancholy tale of a disintegrating relationship with sure-footed lyric sense, a smoky vocal and deft picking. Also check out her new country rocker “Fine County Line.” Both are drawn from her sophomore EP, which is a splendid showcase of a major new artist. Get on board. 

BRAD PAISLEY / “The Medicine Will”
Writers: Brad Paisley/Lee Thomas Miller; Producers: Brad Paisley/Luke Wooten; Label: EMI Nashville
– Absolutely extraordinary. Paisley takes on the opioid epidemic, which is especially lethal in his West Virginia homeland. His word portrait encompasses coal mining and small-town devastation while offering sympathy and understanding to victims. The dobro-laced production drives a brisk track with an enormously sincere vocal performance. Essential listening. 

AVERY ANNA & DYLAN MARLOWE / “I Will (When You Do)”
Writers: Avery Anna/Dylan Marlowe/David Fanning/Abram Dean/Joe Fox; Producer: David Fanning; Label: Warner Music Nashville
– They harmonize perfectly, like each other’s shadow. Neither one wants to be the first one to call it quits in this torrid ballad. I could have done without the crashing rock guitars.

DAX & DARIUS RUCKER / “To Be A Man”
Writer: Daniel Nwosu Jr.; Producer: Lex Nour; Label: Records/Columbia
– Canadian/Nigerian rapper Dax teams with Rucker for a country version of his hit meditation on masculinity. Both men pour anguished emotion into the dense, brilliant lyric. This works beautifully. 

SHY CARTER & FRANK RAY / “Jesus At The Taco Truck”
Writers: Shy Carter/Frank Ray/Ben Burgess/Nathan Chapman; Producer: none listed; Label: Warner Music Nashville
– This already has two million TikTok views. The acoustic ballad teams two fine country singers on a lyric about acceptance, tolerance and love for our fellow men. They express understanding and sympathy for hard-working Mexican immigrants who send money home to their struggling families. Ray is a bi-lingual former police officer who gives representation to his culture here. Carter is a Black songwriting sensation who also brings welcome diversity to the country genre. A tip of the hat and a round of applause to both.

SYLVIA TYSON / “Sweet Agony”
Writer: Sylvia Tyson/Cindy Church; Producer: Danny Greenspoon; Label: Stony Plain Records
– I have been in love with this woman for decades. Now a member of the Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame, she came to prominence in the folk-country duo Ian & Sylvia in the 1960s and 1970s. She wrote the standard “You Were on My Mind,” became a radio broadcasting icon in Canada and has recorded more than a dozen acclaimed solo albums. She is billing At the End of The Day as her final recording. This is its lead track and first single, a sweet waltz with deep-twang guitar. Her voice has mellowed into a lustrous, wise alto, which she employs to great effect on a lyric welcoming love back into life, no matter the consequences.

CHRIS LANE / “Find Another Bar”
Writers: Chris Lane/Justin Ebach/Josh Thompson; Producer: Derek Wells; Label: Red Street Records/Voyager Records
– He spots her in his nightspot wearing a new dress, sporting a new hairdo, singing new song, sipping a new drink and accompanied by a new love. Lane’s a broken-hearted country boy who wishes she’d hang out someplace else. As before, he demonstrates that he’s a first-class country singer. 

UNCLE KRACKER / “Cruising Altitude”
Writers: Uncle Kracker/Brett Warren/Brad Warren/JT Harding; Producer: Josh Bright; Label: Sturgeon General Records
– Good-natured and easy-going, the wafting tune is a romantic come-on that goes down (or is “up?”) smoothly. A feel-good fall anthem. 

LEAH TURNER & JERROD NIEMANN / “South Of The Border”
Writers: Leah Turner/Brett Boyett; Producer: Brett Boyett; Label: LT
– Turner is Mexican-American Latina, and this song is loaded with caliente spice. Niemann is her perfect vocal foil as they zip through this rhythmic little wonder. Not to be confused with the lilting, 1939 Gene Autry hit, this ditty is hot and sexy.

BUDDY JEWELL, CLINT BLACK, MARTY RAYBON & THE BELLAMY BROTHERS / “Sweet Southern Comfort”
Writers: Rodney Clawson/Brad Crisler; Producers: Mitchell Brown/Brandyn Steen; Label: BJ
– Jewell updates his 2004 smash with some hearty cameo performances. In addition to singing, Black’s harmonica work is a standout. The anthemic song seems perfect for the SEC football season. 

NICOLLE GALYON & RODNEY CLAWSON / “Prenup”
Writers: Rodney Clawson/Nicolle Galyon; Producers: Jimmy Robbins/King Henry; Label: Songs & Daughters
– Released two weeks ago on the date of her 16th wedding anniversary, Galyon’s new Second Wife EP chronicles her marriage to fellow hit tunesmith Clawson. The collection’s sole duet is this toe-taping hoot about how splitting up their assets would be ridiculous. The chugging, merry beat is matched by their tongue-in-cheek performance of the delightful ditty. Absolutely worth your spins. 

DISClaimer Single Reviews: Sam Hunt Is ‘As Warm As A Hot Toddy’ On New Single

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There is fascinating diversity in this latest roundup of country music releases.

Riding atop the stack is Sam Hunt, who wins the Disc of the Day award. His strongest challengers are Dion & Carlene Carter, Catie Offerman, newcomer Bryce Leatherwood and the awesome Tony Jackson, all of whom have completely un-alike approaches to the genre. 

This week’s DISCovery Award goes to Camille Parker, from whom I expect big things to come. 

CATIE OFFERMAN / “OK Cowboy”
Writers: Catie Offerman/Matt Dragstrem/Adam Jones/Joe Clemmons; Producer: Dann Huff; Label: MCA Nashville
– She sings so splendidly well that it really doesn’t matter how unrealistic the lyric is. The underlying emotional message is kinda feisty and relatable. It’s a late-night, boot scootin’ thang. 

SAM HUNT / “Came The Closest”
Writers: Sam Hunt/Josh Osborne/Shane McAnally; Producers: Sam Hunt/Zach Crowell; Label: MCA Nashville
– The guy tried to play it straight for her sake. He cut his hair, shaved, acted nice around her parents, took a 9-to-5 job, quit drinking whiskey and tried settling down. But he’s a rambling man at heart, so they never married and he moved on. The airy production is terrific, and Hunt’s vocal is as warm as a hot toddy. Absolutely, yes. 

DYLAN MARLOWE & DYLAN SCOTT / “Boys Back Home”
Writers: none listed; Producer: none listed; Label: Sony Music Nashville
– Missing the old buddies, so raise a glass in their honor. Rousing, if extremely repetitive and rather inconsequential. 

REYNA ROBERTS / “Miranda”
Writers: Reyna Roberts/David Mescon/Kendall Brower; Producers: Reyna Roberts/David Mescon; Label: ReynaRed Records/Empire
– All attitude. No melody. 

BILLY GILMAN / “Delta Queen”
Writers: Billy Gilman/Dan Murph/Philip Douglas; Producer: none listed; Label: Pinecastle Records
– It’s a guitar-and-fiddle acoustic track about a mysterious murder aboard a paddle wheeler. The drama is undercut by his somewhat bland vocal delivery.

DOLLY PARTON & MILEY CYRUS / “Wrecking Ball”
Writers: Henry Russell Walter/Kim Kiyani/Lukasz Gottwald/Maureen Anne McDonald/Sacha Skarbek/Stephen Mocccio; Producer: Dolly Parton/Kent Wells; Label: Butterfly Records
– Parton’s Rockstar collection, due next month, will contain this duet with her rocking goddaughter. Cyrus’ low harmony work and step-out vocals are outstanding, and I’ve always loved her song. When it first hit in 2013, it sold nine million units. It’s well worth a revival. Solid work. 

BRYCE LEATHERWOOD / “The Finger”
Writers: Randy Montana/Jeremy Spillman/Brett Sheroky; Producer: Will Bundy; Label: Republic Records/UMG Nashville
– The winner of NBC’s The Voice steps into country music with a clever, twanging lament. “My ex moved on with her next…..she got the ring and I got the finger.” The track is loud and rocking, but his singing is firmly in control. Worth your spins. 

JESSI COLTER / “Angel in the Fire”
Writer: Jessi Colter; Producer: Margo Price; Label: Appalachia Record Co.
– Colter’s comeback album drops tomorrow (Oct. 27). This touching ballad is one of the tunes that made Price want to produce it. It’s written for Lisa Kristofferson with compassion and understanding. Sweet and gentle, with a lovely acoustic guitar solo as the icing on the cake. 

CAMILLE PARKER / “After the Whiskey”
Writers: Camille Parker/Jessica Cayne/Karen Kosowski; Producer: Reid Sorel; Label: CP
– “Is a party still a party if it’s happening every night?” She’s a “barstool baby” who questions the grip that alcohol and questionable romantic choices have on her. The echoey, swirly track perfectly captures the mood of impending doom. It’s the title tune of her debut EP and is a fine showcase for a promising new talent.

SUZY BOGGUSS / “It All Falls Down to the River”
Writers: Suzy Bogguss/Doug Crider; Producers: Suzy Bogguss/Doug Crider; Label: Loyal Duchess Records
– Bogguss lends a behind-the-beat alto vocal to this swampy, minor-key outing. The lyric describes the blood on American racial history, and The McCrary Sisters add haunting harmonies. Captivating. The album it is drawn from, Prayin’ For Sunshine (due Nov. 3), is her first fully self-composed and self-produced collection. 

TONY JACKSON / “Do You Remember Country Music”
Writers: Bobby Tomberlin/Mo Pitney/Aaron Bowlin; Producers: Chuck Rhodes/Buddy Hyatt/John Sebastian/Jim Della Croce; Label: BFD/Audium Nashville
– What a vocal. Jackson stakes a claim as a true inheritor of the Lefty/Hank/George honky-tonk tradition with this masterpiece of a vocal. He bends the notes of this barroom ballad like a master. Steel, bounced twin-fiddle bows and hillbilly harmonies abound. At the finale, Randy Travis sings, “Amen.” I rest my case. In the name of all that is holy, play this.

DION & CARLENE CARTER / “An American Hero”
Writers: Dion DiMucci/Mike Aquilina; Producers: Dion DiMucci/Wayne Hood; Label: KTBA Records
– The ageless Rock & Roll Hall of Famer sounds as strong and soulful as ever on this country ode celebrating everyday people who respond to tragedies, fight for the nation, farm the fields, work the factories, teach our children, tend to the sick and stand for good. Carter, of course, is her everlasting vibrant vocal self. They harmonize beautifully together as fully equal partners on this inspiring duet. Highly recommended.

CHARLEY CROCKETT / “Killers of the Flower Moon”
Writers: Charley Crockett/T-Bone Burnett; Producer: Charley Crockett; Label: CC
– The song was inspired by the true tale told in David Grann’s 2017 book and Martin Scorsese’s new film of the same title. The Osage Native-American people grew wealthy in Oklahoma because of the oil on their lands. In the early 1920s, White businessmen murdered dozens of tribal leaders and stole their land, which led to an FBI investigation. To the accompaniment of a thumping, jittery track, Crockett revives country music’s folk-ballad tradition and relays the story using real names and places in the song’s lyric. Gripping stuff. The Texas music great is currently on the road opening for Chris Stapleton.

DISClaimer Single Reviews: Chris Stapleton’s New ‘Stately Ballad Is Exquisite’

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DISClaimer slows things down today as the country stars concentrate on ballads.

Most of them are romances, paced by Disc of the Day winner Chris Stapleton’s heart-warming “It Takes a Woman.” In addition, lend your ears to the highly listenable offerings by Tanner Adell and Colbie Caillat.

Also checking in with a ballad is our DISCovery Award winner, Roman Alexander.

This turned out to be a day for comebacks as Lisa Brokop, Shenandoah and Carolyn Dawn Johnson all return to the scene.

ROBYN OTTOLINI / “Sick of Sex”
Writers: Robyn Ottolini/Emily Reid; Producer: Cameron Jaymes; Label: Empire
– This is a pop ballad that explores a topic I don’t believe has been addressed in song before. It is quite wordy and complex, so I doubt radio will play it.

ZACH BRYAN & THE LUMINEERS / “Spotless”
Writers: Zach Bryan/Wesley Schultz/Jeremy Caleb Fraites; Producer: Zach Bryan; Label: Warner
– This guy is always worth a listen. On this spare, stark, ear-catching ballad he’s joined by the Americana stars who chant along as he unspools this lyric of a downer heading nowhere romantically. If you haven’t listened to his self-titled collection, you should.

MADELINE MERLO / “Tim + Faith”
Writers: Jerry Flowers/Madeline Merlo/Parker Welling/Stephony Smith/Zach Crowell; Producer: Zach Crowell; Label: BBR/Wheelhouse
– This lady is a spectacular vocalist, and this dandy slice of romantic nostalgia just might be the tune that lets the whole world know it. The lyric cleverly folds in the power couple’s hit titles. I’m in.

JON PARDI & LUKE BRYAN / “Cowboys and Plowboys”
Writers: Rhett Akins/Cole Taylor/Jacob Rice; Producers: Jon Pardi/Bart Butler/Ryan Gore; Label: Capitol Nashville
– Two hicks swapping country cliches. Probably a hit.

ELVIE SHANE / “Pill”
Writers: Elvie Shane/Lee Starr/Nick Columbia; Producer: Oscar Charles; Label: BBR/Wheelhouse
– The lovely, echoey production and Shane’s captivating voice draw you into a dark tale of a struggle with addiction. Essential listening.

CHRIS STAPLETON / “It Takes a Woman”
Writers: Chris Stapleton/Ronnie Bowman/Jerry Salley; Producers: Chris Stapleton/Dave Cobb/Morgane Stapleton; Label: Mercury Nashville
– This stately ballad is exquisite. Wrap your loved one in your arms and slow dance around the room while his magic voice swirls in the air.

RESTLESS ROAD / “You Don’t Have to Love Me”
Writers: Austin Shawn/Colton Pack/Garrett Nichols/Nate Kenyon/Shawn Austin/Zach Beeken; Producer: Lindsay Rimes; Label: RCA Nashville/1021
– As always with this group, the singing is lustrous and warm. The ultra-romantic ballad is immensely comforting.

COLBIE CAILLAT / “Meant for Me”
Writers: Colbie Caillat/AJ Pruis/Liz Rose; Producer: Jamie Kenney; Label: Blue Jean Baby Records
– The Grammy-winning pop star slips easily into country music on her new Along the Way collection. This lushly produced, romantic ballad from it flows as smoothly as liquid gold.

CAROLYN DAWN JOHNSON / “Road Blocks”
Writers: Carolyn Dawn Johnson/Jennifer Lynn Kennard/Oscar Charles; Producer: Carolyn Dawn Johnson; Label: CDJ
– Johnson re-enters the music scene with a snappy country rocker about persevering through difficulties. Well worth your spins.

SHENANDOAH & LUKE COMBS / “Two Dozen Roses”
Writers: Mac McAnally/Robert Byrne; Producer: Noah Gordon; Label: 8 Track Entertainment
– Shenandoah dusts off its chart-topping 1989 hit with a mighty assist from our reigning country Entertainer of the Year. A classic song performed by classic singers.

ROMAN ALEXANDER & KARLY SCOTT COLLINS / “Downtime”
Writers: Zach Beeken/Garrett Nichols/Colton Pack/Mark Holman/Brett Tyler; Producer: Jared Keim; Label: RA
– This sultry slow jam showcases both voices admirably. It’s snuggle, cuddle-up music in front of the evening fireplace. Alexander seems to be specializing in female collaborations, having previously sung with Alana Springsteen and Ashley Cooke. This title tune of his EP was co-written by Beeken, Nichols and Pack, who are collectively better known as Restless Road.

LISA BROKOP & GEORGETTE JONES / “Who’s Gonna Fill Their Heels”
Writers: Lisa Brokop/Max D. Barnes/Troy Seals; Producers: Chuck Rhodes/Buddy Hyatt; Label: BFD
– The Canadian country award winner returns after a 10-year pause between albums. The title tune of her comeback collection is a female version of the iconic George Jones hit from 1985. George’s daughter lends her terrific voice to the track. The whole thing chimes with charisma.

TANNER ADELL / “Luke Combs”
Writers: Derrick Southerland/Evan Cline/Tanner Adell; Producer: Evan Cline; Label: Columbia
– Sweet, touching, vulnerable, lilting and charming. She listens to the radio and wishes she could be “the girl in a Luke Combs song” like “Better Together” or “Forever After All.” This so richly deserves to be a smash.