DISClaimer Single Reviews: Chris Young Channels Summer Vibes On New Track

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Hot enough for you?

The country stars are fully in tune with summertime this week.

Efforts by Dan + Shay, Hardy, Mickey Guyton & Kane Brown, Lionel Cartwright, Uncle Kracker and Travis Denning sound custom made for warm weather.

The most summer-sounding of all is Chris Young, who wins the Disc of the Day award.

Newcomers? We’ve got ‘em, with Christian Parker, Whitney Miller and our DISCovery Award winner Cassandra Davis all lending their voices to the vacation season.

O.N.E. THE DUO / “Superpower”
Writers: Shane Stevens/Nash Overstreet; Producer: Nash Overstreet; Label: Visionary Media Group
– Being a woman is a superpower sez the mother-daughter duo. It’s a charming single, but it would sound a lot more “country” if it had some actual musical instruments in the production instead of just electronic loops.

HARDY / “Truck Bed”
Writers: Ashley Gorley/Michael Hardy/Hunter Phelps/Ben Johnson; Producers: Joey Moi/Derek Wells/Hardy/Ben Johnson; Label: Big Loud Records/Big Loud Rock
– She’s kicked him out, so now he wakes up “on the wrong side of the truck bed” in the front yard. Now he has to go to work with a hangover. Instruments twang merrily, the gang sings along and a goofball vibe reigns supreme.

CAYLEE HAMMACK / “That Dog”
Writers: Caylee Hammack/Jake Mitchell/Aaron Raitiere; Producers: Caylee Hammack/Dann Huff; Label: Capitol Nashville
– The fiery redhead is totally over him, but she misses the dog. Sassy and spirited.

CHRIS YOUNG / “Young Love & Saturday Nights”
Writers: Ashley Gorley/Jesse Frasure/Josh Thompson/David Bowie; Producers: Chris Young/Corey Crowder/Chris DeStafano; Label: RCA
– The melody quotes “Rebel Rebel” by David Bowie, but this uptempo romp is country all the way. It’s a joyous celebration of old trucks, small towns, radio tunes and necking in the parking lot. Roll down the windows and crank it up on a carefree weekend.

CASSANDRA LEWIS / “Too Much”
Writers: none listed; Producer: Dave Cobb; Label: Elektra/Low Country Sounds
– My ears perked right up. This Portland, Oregan singer-songwriter will kick off her new album with this soul ballad. It’s a stately heartbreak outing with a spare arrangement that frames an extraordinary vibrato-vocal performance. She aims for the stratosphere and then soars above it. A remarkable, singular talent.

DAN + SHAY / “Save Me the Trouble”
Writers: Jordan Reynolds/Ashley Gorley/Dan Smyers/Shay Mooney/Jordan Minton; Producers: Dan Smyers/Scott Hendricks; Label: Warner Music Nashville
– She’s a heartbreak waiting to happen, so this power ballad throws down a warning. As we have come to expect, the singing here is simply excellent. The layered harmonies and understated production both work splendidly. Hit bound.

WHITNEY MILLER / “Nobody”
Writers: Hailey Nicole Verhaalen/Kelly Anne Seidel/Makena Hartlin; Producer: none listed; Label: Whitney Miller Music
– Smoldering and sensuous. She’s in a fever dream that he’s being unfaithful, so electric guitars echo and swirl around her steamy, smoky vocal. Miller is a former Miss United States (2012) who is also a mixed martial arts fighter and kickboxing commentator. Her singing is a tough as she is.

MICKEY GUYTON & KANE BROWN / “Nothing Compares to You”
Writers: Tyler Hubbard/Bebe Rexha/Jordan Schmidt; Producers: Tyler Hubbard/Jordan Schmidt; Label: Capitol Records Nashville
– They sound pretty good together, his plaintive, roughshod delivery contrasting nicely with her sunny, scintillating soprano. The slow-burn, bluesy tune gives Mickey, in particular, plenty of room to vamp and improvise. Smooth listening.

BRANDON DAVIS / “Still Gonna Be”
Writers: Brandon Davis/Daniel Agee/Joe Ragosta; Producers: Daniel Agee; Label: Big Yellow Dog Music
– He sings with passion, but the song isn’t worth the effort.

UNCLE KRACKER / “Reason to Drink”
Writers: Matthew Shafer/Blair Daly/Troy Verges; Producer: none listed; Label: UK
– A summertime party song. You’ll feel like you’re heard it before.

TRAVIS DENNING / “Things I’m Going Through”
Writers: Matt Mulhare/Jordan Dozzi; Producers: Jeremy Stover/Paul DiGiovanni; Label: Mercury Nashville
– He’s so relatable. He delivers this heartbroken meditation in a conversational, everyman voice that worms its way right into ya. The little details in the lyric are really cool. I remain a big fan.

LIONEL CARTWRIGHT / “Sleepwalking”
Writer: Lionel Cartwright; Producer: Lionel Cartwright; Label: Soul Mine Recordings
– Totally groovy. The gentle, mellow track is embellished with his tasty guitar licks, and the tune sways like a hammock on a summer afternoon. The creamy, dreamy, romantic mood is pure pleasure. This veteran hit maker still has the goods. Seek this ultimately enjoyable single out now. You can thank me later.

CHRISTIAN PARKER / “Hickory Wind”
Writers: Gram Parsons/Bob Buchanan; Producer: none listed; Label: CP
– Parker’s album Sweethearts drops on August 18. It is his tribute to the seminal 1968 Byrds country-rock masterpiece Sweethearts of the Rodeo. This single from it comes out tomorrow (July 21), and it’s a dandy remake of Gram Parsons’ timelessly eloquent waltz. Lilting and lovely. In addition to all the songs on the original album, the collection contains versions of “I Still Miss Someone,” “Satisfied Mind” and “Truck Store Truck Drivin’ Man.” Highly recommended.

DISClaimer Single Reviews: Hannah Dasher Creates A ‘Fabulous Sonic Slab’

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Hannah Dasher. Photo: Jeremy Ryan

Is it just me, or is there more new blood in country music than ever these days?

Vying for our attention this week are such up-and-comers as Ashley Cooke, Warren Zeiders, Nate Smith, War Hippies, Hannah Dasher, Dylan Marlowe and Elvie Shane. The Disc of the Day contenders are Cooke, Shane, Chase Rice, Lukas Nelson & Lainey Wilson, Sam Hunt and our winner, Hannah Dasher.

We have no actual newcomers today, but I would like to point out the presence of at least three previous DisCovery Award winners—Nate Smith, War Hippies and Hannah Dasher.

CHASE RICE / “Bad Day to Be a Cold Beer”
Writers: Blake Pendergrass/Chase Rice/John Byron/Justin Thomas; Producer: Oscar Charles; Label: BBR
– Announcing THE drinking song of 2023. This rollicking romper is a working man’s anthem, a party-hearty banger and a kick-butt production all wrapped up in hillbilly delight. Turn it up.

NATE SMITH / “World On Fire”
Writers: Ashley Gorley/Lindsay Rimes/Nate Smith/Taylor Phillips; Producer: Lindsay Rimes; Label: Arista Nashville
– The metaphor doesn’t really work for me, but even if the lyrics are nonsense, this is a spectacularly charismatic vocal performance. The track is molten-rock hot.

HANNAH DASHER / “(I’m the One That Taught Him) That Thing You Like”
Writers: Hannah Dasher/Brandon Hood/Wynn Varble; Producers: none listed; Label: HD
– Witty, bluesy and twanging. She takes the new girlfriend aside to let her know just how intimately she knows the boy on this unreleased track. A fabulous sonic slab. I remain a massive fan.

DYLAN MARLOWE / “Dirt Road When I Die”
Writers: Dylan Marlowe/Joe Fox; Producer: Joe Fox; Label: Sony Music Nashville
– Downbeat, borderline depressing and a little confusing. Okay, after we take you down that dirt road, what do you want us to do with your body? Bury it? Burn it? Leave it out in the sun in the back of that pickup truck?

ASHLEY COOKE / “Your Place”
Writers: Ashley Cooke/Jordan Minton/Mark Trussell; Producer: Jimmy Robbins; Label: Big Loud Records/Back Blocks Music
– This lady sure can write ‘em and sing ‘em. This track from her forthcoming (July 21) debut album sets some definite boundaries for her ex. Her current situation is none of his damn bizness. This is an artist you need to be listening to.

WARREN ZEIDERS / “Pretty Little Poison”
Writers: Ryan Beaver/Jared Keim/Warren Zeiders; Producer: Ross Copperman; Label: Warner Records
– This is his upcoming album’s title tune and lead single. He sings it with passion, but the track drags and the song’s tone is unrelentingly monochromatic.

LUKAS NELSON & POTR WITH LAINEY WILSON / “More Than Friends”
Writer: Lukas Nelson; Producers: Lukas Nelson & Promise of the Real; Label: 6 Ace Records
– His Sticks and Stones album drops tomorrow and the record-release party is tonight at The Nashville Palace. This track from it is a boatload of pleasure—two great voices, one funky country band and a hearty, good-time song. What’s not to love? Lukas gets better and better with each release, and Lainey blends with him perfectly as the icing on this cake. A breezy summer outing.

DIAMOND RIO / “The Kick”
Writers: Carson McKee/Dana Williams/Daniel Thomas Truman/James W. Olander/Marty Roe/Micah Schweinsberg; Producer: James W. Olander; Label: Rio Hot Records
– An instrumental! This is a country category that seems to have died years ago, but leave it to Diamond Rio to revive it with this sizzling jam. Drummer Brian Prout and multi-instrumentalist Gene Johnson have retired after 33 years in the band. Their replacements, Micah Schweinsberg and Carson McKee, more than keep pace with group mainstays Dan Truman (keyboards), Jimmy Olander (lead guitar), Dana Williams (bass) and Marty Roe (rhythm guitar) on this lively outing. A welcome return.

GIRLS NEXT DOOR / “What’s This Thing You’ve Got About Leaving”
Writers: TW Hale/Roger Murrah; Producers: TW Hale/Tom Harding; Label: Girls Next Door Music
– After an absence of 30+ years, Cindy Nixon Psanos, Diane Williams Austin, Tammy Stephens Smith and Doris King Merritt have reunited as the Girls Next Door. The quartet initially made some noise with a flurry of singles on MTM Records in the late ‘80s. The group’s comeback single is a lively, bopping, good-vibes ditty that vividly shows that their creamy harmony blend is as flawless as ever. Nicely done, all around.

SAM HUNT / “Outskirts”
Writers: Sam Hunt/Zach Crowell/Jerry Flowers/Josh Osborne; Producers: Chris LaCorte/Shane McAnally/Sam Hunt; Label: MCA Nashville
– Regret, nostalgia, reflection and mourning for the love he threw away. Singing with the throttle wide open, Hunt has seldom sounded better. The song displays very classy craftsmanship. Totally a winner.

WAR HIPPIES / “The Hangman”
Writers: Donald E. Reis III/Scoot Edward Brown; Producer: Donnie Reis; Label: War Hippies
– This is a duo of military combat vets. The song is a haunting western-outlaw ballad about two lovers who are strung up, side-by-side. Complete with gunshot and galloping-horse sound effects. Imaginative, indeed.

ELVIE SHANE / “Baptized”
Writers: Elvie Shane/Dan Couch/Luke Preston/Oscar Charles; Producer: Oscar Charles; Label: Wheelhouse Records
– Simmering with gospel passion, this ode to a deep and sensuous love is downright riveting. Shane is one of our most talented and distinctive newcomers. Lend the “My Boy” singer your ears once again.

DISClaimer Single Reviews: David Nail & Jo Dee Messina Share The Disc Of The Day

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David Nail, Jo Dee Messina

Summer has arrived in full force on the country music scene.

As the temperature soars, the songs are cool. Especially from Jon Langston, Restless Road, Maddie & Tae, Track 45 and Kameron Marlowe. Tuneful, talented veterans Jo Dee Messina and David Nail share the Disc of the Day award this week.

Teenage multi-instrumentalist New Yorker David J takes home a DISCovery Award. Not necessarily for his debut disc, but for what I believe will be more accomplished outings in the future.

KAMERON MARLOWE & ERIN KIRBY / “I Can Lie (The Truth Is)”
Writers: Jordan Fletcher/Kameron Marlowe/Shane Minor; Producer: Dann Huff; Label: Columbia Nashville
– Magnificently country. This hard-core power ballad showcases one of our best new honky-tonk baritones. In an emotionally complex lyric, Kirby harmonizes and keeps pace, but this is Kameron Marlowe’s show all the way.

JO DEE MESSINA / “Just To Be Loved”
Writers: Jess Cates/Jordan Mohilowski/Tim Nichols/Jo Dee Messina; Producer: Jordan Mohilowski; Label: JDM
– Messina is having a moment, thanks to the revival of “Heads Carolina Tails California.” Her comeback single is a beautifully produced bopper with rippling mandolin, burbling bass, stacked vocals, crisp percussion and a breezy summertime vibe. Her voice remains as hearty and warm as ever. The lyric’s message about being true to yourself is lovely, too. So delightful sounding that I didn’t want it to end.

TRACK 45 / “Grew Up On”
Writers: Ben Johnson/Jenna Johnson/KK Johnson/Ashley Gorley/Jonathan Singleton/Taylor Phillips; Producers; Track 45; Label: Stoney Creek Records
– The three Johnson siblings wax nostalgic for their rural upbringing on this harmony soaked outing. The lilting melody has a soft, airy, gentle caress. Their deft plucking on bass, fiddle and guitar are the icing on this delicious cake.

BILLY CURRINGTON / “City Don’t”
Writers: Scooter Carusoe/Joshua Miller/Chris LaCorte; Producer: Carson Chamberlain; Label: Mercury Nashville
– He contrasts high-rise city living with country dirt road pleasures, and guess which one comes out on top? The sluggish track plods, and there’s nothing memorable about his lackadaisical delivery.

JON LANGSTON / “Whiskey Does”
Writers: Jon Langston/Brad Wagner/Cole Taylor/Jordan Gray; Producers: Jody Stevens/Jacob Rice/Brad Wagner; Label: EMI Nashville
– “She don’t love me anymore, but whiskey does.” There you have it. A broken heart, an empty glass, misery needs company, the whole hillbilly honky-tonk package. This guy has long been a favorite, and this old-school outing in a very imaginative production seals the deal. Play it again.

LAUREN ALAINA / “Just Wanna Know That You Love Me”
Writers: Brandy Clark/Joybeth Taylor/Sam Ellis; Producer: Joey Moi; Label: Big Loud
– The melodic ballad suits her style in that she repeats its title multiple times. She seems to specialize in this type of delivery—after all, it worked so well in that irritating, repetitive million seller “The Road Less Traveled.”

DAVID J / “Last Time”
Writers: Cate Downey/Danny Majic/David J; Producer: Danny Majic; Label: Sony Music Nashville/Grey Area Entertainment
– Paint-by-numbers, generic, forgettable, youthful country-pop. Surely he can do better.

MADDIE & TAE / “Heart They Didn’t Break”
Writers: Anna Vaus/Banjy Lashar Davis/Ryan Beaver; Producer: Corey Crowder; Label: Mercury Nashville
– Poignant and sweet/sad, with their gorgeous harmony blend front and center. A lilting steel solo and perfectly placed drum thumps support their pristine performance. Another gem from this steadfast team.

RESTLESS ROAD / “No Can Do “
Writers: Matt Jenkins/Jessi Alexander/Colton Pack/Garrett Nichols/Zachary Beeken/Jacob Rice; Producer: Jared Klein; Label: RCA Nashville/1021 Entertainment
– This is a dandy, upbeat summer jam. Why work when you can relax with a pop-top? A rollicking good time, complete with a mid-song “gang” vocal break.

KIDD G / “Lesson Learned”
Writers: Alex Maxwell/Jaxson Free/Jonathan Gabriel Horne; Producer: Dann Huff; Label: Rebel
– Acoustic, semi-spoken verses alternating with electric-guitar soaring choruses. Incongruous banjo plucking and thrashing percussion. It sounds like three different songs trying to mash together.

DAVID NAIL / “Silverado”
Writers: David Nail/Grant Vogel/Robyn Collins; Producer: Grant Vogel; Label: One Five Sound, LLC
– Let’s face it: The man was born to sing. And what woman could resist this come-on? He wants to take it slow, get to know her and ride off to unknown adventures in his truck. The echoey track takes on layer after lovely layer as this wafting, romantic ode unfurls.

DARRYL WORLEY / “Have We Forgotten”
Writers: Darryl Worley/Wynn Varble; Producer: Phil O’Donnell; Label: Valory Music Co.
– Worley’s update of his 9/11 hit “Have You Forgotten” addresses a politically divided nation. It asks us to remember when we could agree to disagree and work together for the common good. A timely call for togetherness. Its “united we stand” message is lighting up message boards.

DISClaimer Single Reviews: Tim McGraw Is ‘Eloquently Heartbreaking’ On New Track

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Tim McGraw. Photo: Robby Klein

Country music is unashamed to wear its heart on its sleeve, and that’s abundantly true in this edition of DISClaimer.

Sam Hunt openly worships the women in his life. Ashley McBryde explores the dark side of her childhood. Elle King sings of loneliness. Drew Holcomb praises friendship. The late Kenny Rogers embraces the sentiments of fatherhood. Most powerful of all is the emotion Todd Tilghman pours into “Blood, Sweat & Tears,” which wins him a DISCovery Award.

Our Disc of the Day is also nakedly emotional. Tim McGraw’s “Hey Whiskey” mourns the damage done. Brilliantly.

DREW HOLCOMB & THE NEIGHBORS / “Find Your People”
Writers: Drew Holcomb/Kevin Scott Rhoads; Producer: Cason Cooley; Label: Magnolia Music/Tone Tree Music
– This guy has been making great music for 20 years. This happy, rhythmic track boasts hearty vocals, chunky beats, acoustic strumming and a lot of cheer. Holcomb sings of the value of friendships while the band sets the mood. Drawn from his just-released Strangers No More album, the celebratory tune is presently at No. 1 on the Americana chart.

SAM HUNT / “Women in My Life”
Writers: Sam Hunt/Zach Crowell/Ashley Gorley/Josh Osborne; Producers: Zach Crowell/Chris LaCorte/Sam Hunt; Label: MCA Nashville
– This swaying, atmospheric, echoey outing is sung with soft sincerity. He muses how empty his life would be without the women who made him the person he is. The performance is perfect, and the sentiment is superb. His best yet.

ASHLEY McBRYDE / “Learned to Lie”
Writers: Ashley McBryde/Sean McConnell/Nicolette Hayford; Producer: Jay Joyce; Label: Warner Music Nashville
– “Light on in the Kitchen” is still the single, and its parent album The Devil I Know isn’t due until September. But here’s another advance track from it. The lyric takes you down a dark passageway into a dysfunctional childhood while the ballad’s guitar, steel and bass draw out a slow, sad accompaniment. Stunning and powerful.

TIM McGRAW / “Hey Whiskey”
Writers: Brad Hutsell/Joel Hutsell/Brad Warren/Brett Warren; Producers: Tim McGraw/Byron Gallimore; Label: Big Machine Records
– Eloquently heartbreaking. He addresses the drink that took his money, drove away a good woman, occupied his life and left him in hell. Sighing steel and brushed percussion hurt with every note. One more reason to eagerly anticipate the release of his new Standing Room Only collection in August.

LORI McKENNA / “The Town in Your Heart”
Writers: Lori McKenna/Jessie Jo Dillon/Dustin Christensen; Producer: Dave Cobb; Label: CN Records/Thirty Tigers
– The troubadour takes a strummy, uptempo ride in this ode to two wandering souls who take to the road. She’s fine with traveling, as long she has a home in his heart. The Everly-esque vocal harmonies are a bonus.

KENNY ROGERS / “Catchin’ Grasshoppers”
Writers: Laura McCall Torno/Earl Torno; Producers: Randy Dorman & Kenny Rogers; Label: UMG
– The new Kenny Rogers album Life Is Like a Song is a compilation of previously unreleased tunes. Its first single is a heart-tugging, downbeat ode to fatherhood. He puts aside his busy life to spend time playing outside with his little twins.

HANNAH ELLIS / “Wine Country”
Writers: Hannah Ellis/Clint Lagerberg/Nick Wayne; Producers: Jason Massey/Clint Lagerberg; Label: Curb Records
– It’s a rollicking, romping drinkin’ song. Only this time it’s chardonnay in a solo cup instead of beer. Lotsa fun. Raise your glass and sing along.

RODNEY CROWELL / “You’re Supposed to Be Feeling Good”
Writer: Rodney Crowell; Producer: Jeff Tweedy; Label: New West Records
– This song first appeared on the 1977 Emmylou Harris LP Luxury Liner, but Crowell never got around to recording it, himself. Until now. The partnership with Jeff Tweedy on the songwriter’s new The Chicago Sessions album brings him renewed vigor and an utterly fresh audio approach. And this track couldn’t be a better example. It’s kinda twangy and Beatles-y at the same time.

ELLE KING & DIPLO / “Without You”
Writers: Daniel Silberstein/Elle King/Henry Agincourt Allen/Jamison Baken/Sasha Alex Sloan/Thomas Wesley Pentz; Producers: Diplo/King Henry; Label: Columbia
– Rapid, rushed snare beats and a tickling banjo propel this dreamy, airy lovelorn track. Heartache has seldom sounded more inviting.

ASHLEY COOKE / “Shot in the Dark”
Writers: Ashley Cooke/Jordan Minton/Emily Weisband/Corey Crowder; Producer: Jimmy Robbins; Label: Big Loud Records/Back Blocks Music
– This is the title tune of her album, which drops next month. With 24 tracks, it surely must be the longest debut country collection in history. The song is a splendid introduction, wafting with young romance and twirling in melody. The extremely well written lyric puts you right in that barroom, watching love at first sight occur over tequilas.

BEN RECTOR / “Wonderful World”
Writers: Ben Rector/Jordy Searcy/Andrew Tufano; Producers: Ben Rector/Andrew Tufano; Label: OK Kid Recordings 
– Rector appears at the Let Freedom Sing concert when Music City celebrates the Fourth of July next Tuesday. He’ll be sharing the bill with Brad Paisley and The War & Treaty, so he’ll be bringing his pop/Americana “A” game. The current video by this Nashvillian is an endearing puppet production featuring likenesses of him and his daughter out in gorgeous nature scenery. The track is lilting, sweet and pop-folkie. It’s also an audio delight.

TODD TILGHMAN / “Blood, Sweat & Tears”
Writers: Joe Hanson/Justin Morgan/Victoria Banks; Producers: none listed; Label: Straight Arrow Records
– Wait a second: This dude won on The Voice, but you’ve never heard of him? That might be because production shut down when the COVID pandemic hit and he finished the show remotely. When coach Blake Shelton introduced him on the Opry, Todd wowed me with “Home Wasn’t Built in a Day,” a tender and beautifully sung evocation of home-and-hearth. Now comes this powerful single/video with a gospel lyric exalting, “His blood, my sweat and her tears.” It will make you shout, “Amen.” At age 45, he’s the oldest champ in the show’s history, but this father of eight and former pastor from Mississippi has a heartfelt voice with no age limit. He has released several other fine singles, but so far has no album. Somebody give this gifted guy a break. And a label deal.

DISClaimer Single Reviews: Brad Paisley ‘RAWKS’

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Brad Paisley. Photo: Jeff Lipsky

Yesterday was the first day of summer, and the country artists are celebrating.

Jameson Rodgers, Brian Kelley and Brad Paisley all have new singles saluting the season. The rocking effort by Brad Paisley takes home the Disc of the Day award.

The DISCovery Award goes to Tanner Adell, one of three Black female acts in today’s playlist. The others are the equally listenable O.N.E. The Duo and Black Opry alumna Roberta Lea.

Three seems to be today’s magic number. Big Machine is on fire this week, with three of our contenders. David Garcia is having a moment, since he’s also involved in three of this week’s releases. And that bring us back to summertime, which is the topic of three DISClaimer sounds. Here’s hoping yours is a sunshine-and-flowers season.

JOSH ROSS / “Trouble”
Writers: Josh Ross/Mason Thornley; Producer: Matt Geroux; Label: Mercury Nashville
– Heartbreak and anguish from a shredded tenor voice. The ballad is taken at a mournful pace as he describes drinking to ease the pain. In mid-song, everything stops for a drunk-dial, spoken-word passage. The echoey guitars are cool. too.

CARLY PEARCE & CHRIS STAPLETON / “We Don’t Fight Anymore”
Writers: Carly Pearce/Shane McAnally/Pete Good; Producers: Shane McAnally/Josh Osborne/Carly Pearce; Label: Big Machine
– The relationship is so dead that they have stopped communicating completely. There’s no love, but there’s also no hate. A dobro drones sympathetically as the vocalists portray this super sad story. Both are such glorious singers that you hang on every line.

BRIAN KELLEY / “See You Next Summer”
Writers: David Garcia/Michael Hardy/Hillary Lindsey; Producer: Dann Huff; Label: Big Machine
– This mid-tempo effort unspools with pent-up energy as his voice rides atop a swirling mix of beats and electric guitars. They hooked up at the beach in Florida. Instead of calling it a summer fling, he fell in love.

BRAD PAISLEY / “So Many Summers”
Writers: Brad Paisley/Ross Copperman/Lee Thomas Miller; Producers: Luke Wooten/Brad Paisley; Label: Loaded Goat/UMG
– Live it up and have a good time, because you only get so many summers. “Swing for the fence, jump in the water …and tell her you love her.” A word of wisdom from the senior citizen at the playground. And it RAWKS. Play this on repeat.

JAMESON RODGERS / “Mine for the Summer”
Writers: Brent Anderson/Jake Mitchell/Jameson Rodgers/Smith Ahnquist; Producer: David Garcia; Label: Columbia/River House Artists
– Well written. He’s fallen so hard that he doesn’t care about anybody back home or anything else, for that matter. They’ve just met, but he’s dizzy and giddy enough that it doesn’t matter whether she’s his for the night, for the summer or for the rest of his life. The chiming production supports him at every melodic turn. A lovely little single.

CHRIS JANSON / “The Outlaw Side of Me”
Writers: Chris DeStefano/Chris Janson/Lee Miller; Producers: Julian Raymond/Chris Janson/Scott Borchetta; Label: Big Machine
– The title tune of Janson’s new album is a thumping redneck anthem that marries his drawling vocal performance with some processed electronics and a Southern-rock production. Fiery and fierce.

JOE NICHOLS / “Brokenhearted”
Writers: John Thomas Harding/Marv Green/Rhett Akins; Producers: Mickey Jack Cones/Derek George; Label: Quartz Hill Records
– This lively tune puts tongue firmly in cheek to state that there’s no crying-in-your-beer country music anymore. Instead, everybody’s dancing to party songs, “gettin’ up and gettin’ down.” I love this song, and he’s still one helluva country singer.

PILLBOX PATTI / “Low Life”
Writers: Nicolette Hayford/Chris Tompkins/Jessie Jo Dillon/Nicolette Rose Hayford; Producers: Chris Tompkins/Park Chisolm; Label: Monument Records
– This is a terrifically gripping account of a misspent youth of drugs, booze, theft, jail and bad behavior. Despite the sordid details, you get the impression that she has fond memories. Her hushed vocal is wonderfully compelling, and the echoey, wooshy, electronic production casts a hypnotic spell. As a songwriter, Nicolette Hayford is top-notch. As an artist, Pillbox Patti has no equal.

ROBERTA LEA / “Too Much of a Woman”
Writer: Roberta Lea Halmond-Walters; Producer: none listed; Label: Heaven Lea Records
– Very feisty. She might be too loud and too assertive, but she’ll be nobody’s doormat. “If I’m too much of a woman, you’re too little of a man.” So there. Here’s an interesting tidbit: This feminist anthem was recorded in the studio with an all-woman band.

TANNER ADELL / “Throw It Back”
Writers: Dan Pellarin/Tanner Adell; Producer: Evan Cline; Label: Columbia
– Adell employs a fishing metaphor on this bopping, amusing, girl-power outing. If you don’t like the way he talks or acts, well just like something you hauled in with your rod and reel, toss him overboard. On the other hand, if he likes classic country songs, “grab him by the hand and take his country ass back home.”

O.N.E. The Duo / “‘Til You Called My Name”
Writers: Prana Supreme Diggs/John Bettis/Tekitha Washington; Producer: Nash Overstreet; Label: Visionary Media Group
– Lilting and very pretty. Their airy, wafting voices blend in harmony beautifully. The sighing strings in the mix are exquisitely arranged and produced. The message is a balm of finding home and solace after a wanderlust life. Lend this your ears. By the way, this mother-daughter team deserves some major-label support.

CARRIE UNDERWOOD / “Take Me Out”
Writers: Carrie Underwood/David Garcia/Hillary Lindsey; Producers: Carrie Underwood/David Garcia; Label: Capitol Nashville
– Sweet sounding. Underwood wants to rekindle romance with some simple solutions—some flirting, some kisses, some attention. Most of all, take her out on the town. The gently pulsing rhythm and hushed soprano harmonies are the icing on the audio cake.

DISClaimer Single Reviews: Gabby Barrett Has ‘Only Just Begun’ Making Hits

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Rockers and ballads share equal space in this edition of DISClaimer.

In the former category is Gabby Barrett, who earns a Disc of the Day with her toe tapper. But not without strong competition from Dierks Bentley and Brandy Clark.

In the ballad column, you’ll find our DISCovery Award winner, Ben Goldsmith. He’s joined by strong slow-song mavens Rebecca Lynn Howard and The War and Treaty. Play ‘em all.

JAKE OWEN / “On the Boat Again”
Writers: Willie Nelson/Devin Dawson/Kyle Fishman/Rocky Block/Blake Pendergrass; Producer: Joey Moi; Label: Big Loud
– Country’s resident Beach Boy heads back to the shore with this lively retooling of Willie’s “On the Road Again.” Boppy, goofy, summer-sunshine fun.

BRANDY CLARK / “Northwest”
Writers: Brandy Clark/Jessie Jo Dillon; Producer: Brandi Carlile; Label:Warner Records
– Clark sings of the majesty, beauty and space of her Pacific Northwest homeland on this punchy country rocker. Producer Carlile is also from that area, and maybe that’s why this has an extra touch of magic. There is simply no one in country music who is making music that is more consistently excellent than this awesome singer-songwriter.

LARRY FLEET / “Layaway”
Writers: Larry Fleet/Josh Miller/Mark Trussell; Producer: Joey Moi; Label: Big Loud
– This blue-collar anthem depicts a hard-working man who struggles to make ends meet while finding solace with those who love him. The steel licks are as cool as his vocal drawl. A winner.

DIERKS BENTLEY / “Something Real”
Writers: Dierks Bentley/Ross Copperman/Michael Hardy/Ashley Gorley/Luke Dick; Producers: Dierks Bentley/F. Reid Shippen/Jon Randall/Ross Copperman; Label: Capitol Nashville
– The deep bass rumble and chiming guitars frame a darkly dramatic vocal performance that yearns for authenticity and emotion in life. “I’m just looking for some truth,” he sings in a surprise, stark, blank passage amid the crashing, rocking track. Well done, son.

BEN GOLDSMITH / “Flowers in Your Hair”
Writers: Ben Goldsmith/Marshall Altman; Producer: Ben Goldsmith/Brad Jones; Label: Sony Music Nashville
– Different and intriguing. He possesses a piercing tenor voice that conveys sincerity in every note. The arty, poetic ballad is accompanied by simple piano playing and a lovely string quartet. Send more.

VINCE GILL & PAUL FRANKLIN / “Kissing Your Picture (Is So Cold)”
Writers: Ray Price/Mel Tillis/Wayne Walker; Producer: Vince Gill/Paul Franklin; Label: MCA Nashville
– Vince’s next collection, Sweet Memories, is a tribute to the music of Ray Price & The Cherokee Cowboys. It’s a collaboration with steel-guitar great Paul Franklin, who answers the singer’s phrases with silvery instrumental passages. Price was the king of the country shuffle, so naturally this advance track is a dandy one. Country trends might come and go, but I will always love me some Vince Gill.

GABBY BARRETT / “Glory Days”
Writers: Gabby Barrett/Emily Weisband/Seth Mosley/James McNair; Producers: Gabby Barrett/Ross Copperman; Label: Warner Music Nashville
– This youngster is a queen of catchy hooks, as this rapid, rushing rocker underscores. She savors the simple joys of everyday love while beats thump all around her. “I Hope,” “The Good Ones” and “Pick Me Up” were the country-pop gems that propelled her debut album. This lead-off track of her sophomore collection suggests that she’s only just begun. Barrett heads to her home turf on Aug. 11 for a post-game concert when the Pirates play the Reds at PNC Park, which is baseball’s most perfect venue.

LEWIS BRICE & LEE BRICE / “Product Of”
Writers: Lewis Brice/Josh Gallagher/Taylor Goyette/Mark Addison Chandler; Producer: Ben Simonetti; Label: Digitally Sound Records
– This rousing, upbeat ode to small-town romance reflects the brothers’ South Carolina upbringing. It’s a terrific audio rush with an emotional core of honesty.

REBECCA LYNN HOWARD / “I Am My Mother”
Writers: Rebecca Lynn Howard/Jamie Floyd/Rachel Thibodeau/Carolyn Dawn Johnson; Producers: Elisha Hoffman/Lee Brice/Rebecca Lynn Howard; Label: Pump House
– I remain an enormous fan of this lady. She remains one of country’s superior singers. Howard hits an emotional bullseye with this powerful ballad connecting her to her mother. “I look in the mirror expecting me/But her reflection is all I see.” Spine tingling stuff.

JELLY ROLL / “Need a Favor”
Writers: Jelly Roll/Rob Ragosta/Austin Nivarel/ Joe Ragosta; Producer: Austin Nivarel; Label: BBR
– “I only talk to God when I need a favor.” It has other lyrics, but those 10 words are repeated so often that it’s all you remember about the song. It and the ballad “She” have been on the market for a few months, but are now joined by the release of their parent album Whitsett Chapel.

ROBYN OTTOLINI / “Katie’s Song”
Writer: Robyn Ottolini; Producer: Mark Schroor/Erik Fintelman; Label: Aleu Records
– Timed to Pride Month, Robyn’s lively new song celebrates her sister, “Sometimes girls and girls can fall in love….Katie’s got a girlfriend/Love is love, it is what it is/And they’re both happy as shit.” Alrighty then.

THE WAR AND TREATY / “Dumb Luck”
Writer: Beau Bedford; Producer: Michael Trotter Jr.; Label: Mercury Nashville
– It seems like the label releases a new track by this titanically talented duo every week. Which is fine by me. In this case, it’s a performance video of a thrilling, to-God-the-glory power ballad. If your spirit needs a lift, play it now. Then shout, “Amen.”

DISClaimer Single Reviews: Parker McCollum Shows His Star Power On ‘Smoldering Heartache Song’

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Teamwork makes the dream work.

A flurry of collaborations mark this edition of DISClaimer. Putting their voices together to create fine listening are Miranda Lambert & Leon Bridges, Bryan Ruby & Ty Herndon, Brothers Osborne and Kenny & Dolly, who are best harmony singers in the bunch.

But the Disc of the Day goes to a solo performer, Parker McCollum. He sounds more and more like a headliner every day.

The DISCovery Award belongs to singer-songwriter Julie Williams, a captivating new talent, for sure.

DYLAN SCOTT / “This Town’s Been Good to Us”
Writers: Dylan Scott/Ashley Gorley/Ryan Vojtesak/John Byron/Taylor Phillips; Producers: Charlie Handsome/Jacob Durrett; Label: Curb
– Memories of a time and place. Nostalgia and reflection for a well-spent youth. Engaging and hearty.

BOY NAMED BANJO / “What Keeps Me Going”
Writers: Barton Davies/Pat McLaughlin/William Reames; Producer: Oscar Charles; Label: Mercury Nashville
– Excellent vocal harmonies, a gentle vibe, soaring instrumental work and a feel-good message are the hallmarks of this uplifting ballad. The members of this band have been playing together since they were teens, and it shows.

JASON ALDEAN / “Try That in a Small Town”
Writers: Kurt Allison/Tully Kennedy/Kelley Lovelace/Neil Thrasher; Producer: Michael Knox; Label: BBR
– Tuneless, bellicose bellowing about how evil big cities are.

KENNY ROGERS & DOLLY PARTON / “Tell Me That You Love Me”
Writers: Todd Cerney/Buffy Lawson/Eric Pittarelli; Producer: Tony Brown; Label: UMG
– The late Kenny Rogers has a new album titled Life Is Like A Song. It contains previously unreleased performances and rarities, including this long-lost duet with Dolly. The jaunty rhythm and buoyant mood burble along while these two superb harmony vocalists bounce their voices merrily against each other. A total smile.

BECKY HOBBS / “About the Children”
Writer: Rebecca Ann Hobbs; Producer: none listed; Label: Beckaroo Records
– “It’s just another shooting in the U.S.A.” is the opening line of this heartfelt ballad about our society’s epidemic of gun violence. Our children are being murdered. “Thoughts and prayers are not enough,” she sings, adding, “When are we gonna say we’ve had enough?” and chanting a middle passage that demands reforming our gun laws.

BROTHERS OSBORNE / “Goodbye’s Kickin’ In”
Writers: John Osbornes/Lee Miller/Mike Elizondo/TJ Osborne; Producer: Mike Elizondo; Label: EMI Nashville 
– This change-of-pace number is a bluesy, moody stomper with hot guitar licks that don’t quit. Highly listenable.

PARKER McCOLLUM / “Burn It Down”
Writers: Parker McCollum/Hillary Lindsay/Lori McKenna/Liz Rose; Producer: Jon Randall; Label: MCA Nashville
– The smoldering heartache song bursts into flame on its bridge and keeps on burning to its smoking-ashes finale. McCollum’s delivery is appropriately edgy and pained. The man is a star.

JULIE WILLIAMS / “Sugarcoat”
Writers: Julie Williams/Alex Slay; Producers: Michael Beckhart/Gabriel Klein/Gideon Klein; Label: Julie Williams Music
– Every time I have seen her at a Black Opry show, Williams has impressed me with her talent. Now she’s been chosen for the 2023 CMT Next Women of Country class. Last week, she celebrated the release of her debut EP with a show at Analog. On its title tune and first video, she’s showing her sweet self so he will never see her hurting. It’s a lilting, bright, pop-ish ditty that showcases her songwriting talent as well as her winsome vocal style.

MIRANDA LAMBERT & LEON BRIDGES / “If You Were Mine”
Writers: Miranda Lambert/Ashley Monroe/Jesse Frasure; Producer: Jon Randall; Label: Columbia
– These two Texans melt their voices together like an ice-cream sundae on a summer day in this deliciously dreamy duet. The band provides tasty licks between their vocal phrases to complete the sweet dish.

KIDD G / “Daylight Savings”
Writers: Alex Maxwell/Gabe Foust/Jonathan Gabriel Horne/Joybeth Taylor; Producer: Dann Huff; Label: Rebel/Geffen Records
– Rocking country that sounds vaguely like an Aldean outtake. Youthful and rousing.

LAUREN ALAINA / “A Walk in the Bar”
Writers: Lauren Alaina/Casey Brown/Lydia Vaughan/Parker Welling; Producer: Joey Moi; Label: Big Loud
– Getting over him is as easy as a barroom pick-up. A melody would have been nice.

BRYAN RUBY & TY HERNDON / “The Standouts”
Writers: Bryan Ruby/Chad Sellers/Anthony Fiddler; Producer: Smith Curry; Label: Pivotal Records
– This is a power-packed anthem celebrating heroes who display courage in their lives. Although it’s not specific in the lyric, they intend for it to be a song for Pride Month. Because among the several heroes depicted in the song are LGBTQ+ folks.

DISClaimer Single Reviews: Wendy Moten Releases A ‘Groove-Saturated Sonic Slab Of Soul’

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I have been looking forward to this for years.

This is the first all-Black column in DISClaimer’s 40-year history. Never before have there been a full dozen current Black-music releases related to the Nashville music scene that are available in the same week.

Musically, it’s a mixed bag. You’ll find blues, folk, R&B, reggae, Americana and more in this roundup. What unites almost all of them is musical excellence.

Wendy Moten’s new single is the Disc of the Day. The DISCovery Award goes to the sister quartet The BoykinZ. Both acts are proud Nashvillians, and we’re just as proud of them.

JOY OLADOKUN / “Taking Things for Granted”
Writers: Joy Oladokun; Producers: Joy Oladokun, Elliot Skinner, Aaron Steele; Label: Verve Forecast/Republic
– I usually think of her as a folkie, but this track rocks with pop punch. Plus, she shreds on the electric guitar. It’s so hooky and radio friendly that she could ascend to Swiftian levels with it. This Nashvillian is celebrating a new album, Proof of Life, with a national tour and a basket full of rave reviews. Rousing applause from this corner.

WENDY MOTEN / “Don’t Give Up”
Writers: Wendy Moten/David Santos; Producers: Paul Worley/Wendy Moten; Label: Radio Eye Music
– After more than 20 years as a background vocalist for others, Moten shot to national fame via competing on The Voice last year. She was an inspiration to mature performers everywhere when she became a fan-favorite finalist. Her new single is similarly inspiring, a life philosophy about persevering through the storms. Not only that, it’s a groove-saturated sonic slab of soul. Everything about this is electrifying, from the sizzling organ to the rump-shaking rhythm section, from the tasty guitar licks to her shout-to-the-heavens vocal. All together now: “Hallelujah!”

LOUIS YORK & JESSIE J / “Heaven Bound”
Writers: Charles Harmon/Claude Kelly/Jessica Ellen Cornish/Margaret Rose Durante; Producer: Louis York; Label: Weirdo Workshop 
– Contemporary R&B the way it is meant to be played. It’s also an ultra-romantic duet with scintillating harmonies, killer production and hooks a-plenty. Jessie sings great, but the stars of this show are the Louis York production team with Claude Kelly vocalizing up a storm and his partner Chuck Harmony laying down all the keyboard and guitar parts. It is part of a forthcoming album by these two Music City creators titled Songs With Friends.

THE WAR AND TREATY / “Up Yonder”
Writers: Michael Trotter, Jr., Tanya Trotter; Producer: Dave Cobb; Label: UMG Nashville
– These two thrilling voices wrecked the house during the PBS broadcast of the Memorial Day concert. Elaborating on the gospel chestnut “When the Roll Is Called Up Yonder,” they paid tribute to the fallen men and women of our armed services. By the time they finished, I was sobbing openly. If you didn’t catch this performance on TV, go to YouTube right now and be prepared to be shaken to the depths of your soul. Michael and Tanya make me feel so proud to live in a community that lifts them up.

THE SHINDELLAS / “Last Night Was Good For My Soul”
Writers: Claude Kelly/Chuck Harmony; Producers: Louis York; Label: Weirdo Workshop
– This Nashville female trio harkens back to the glory days of the “girl group” era. Over an addictive funk/disco groove, they harmonize and emote marvelously on this sunny thumper. It debuted on Billboard’s Adult R&B Airplay chart this week, and hooray for that. The Shindellas opened last fall’s Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame banquet, and I’d sure like to see them again. How about a local club date?

KEB’ MO’ / “Taking Me Higher”
Writers: Keb’ Mo’/John Lewis Parking; Producers: Keb’ Mo’/John Burk; Label: Candid
– “Taking Me Higher” is the first single from the soundtrack of the upcoming movie Sweetwater, which tells the story of Nat “Sweetwater” Clifton, the first African American to land an NBA contract. Nashville’s resident blues genius gives it a stately, deliberate reading, loaded with cool guitar licks, accompanying female choristers and his own brilliant, mellifluous, behind-the-beat phrasing. Totally uplifting. Love this. Love him.

DEVON GILFILLIAN / “All I Really Wanna Do”
Writers: Devon Gilfillian/Henry Brill/Ran Jackson; Producer: Jeremy Lutito; Label: Fantasy
– This guy attracted attention a few years back by recreating Marvin Gaye’s 1971 masterpiece What’s Going On, song for song. That influence is still audible on his new Love You Anyway album and its trippy, dreamy current single. Gilfillian’s presence in Nashville seems to me like the future of the town’s Black-music scene. This is a sound to get lost in.

MORGAN HERITAGE / “Ready”
Writers: Charles Nii Armah Mensah Jr./Emmanuel Mkono, Jose Chameleone/Morgan Heritage/Romeo Bangula; Producers: Morgan Hertiage/Nahreel; Label: CTBC Music Group
– Among Nashville’s most distinctive musician residents is Gramps Morgan, the Grammy-winning reggae star. His Morgan Heritage recording ensemble has a new 21-track album titled The Homeland, and it has already spawned several simultaneously released stoner singles. This one features Jose Chameleone and Shatta Wade chanting the refrain with Gramps coming in with a baritone rap about midway through. It’s a rhythm-happy bouncer extolling booty beauty. Beats to brighten your day.

AMYTHYST KIAH / “Chained to the Rhythm”
Writers: Ali Payami/Katy Perry/Max Martin/Sia Furler/Skip Marley; Producers: Amythyst Kiah/Matty Alger/Ethan Ballinger; Label: Rounder
– This Johnson City, Tennessee resident recently hit TikTok with her cool cover of the Katy Perry 2016 hit “Chained to the Rhythm.” It is awash in electronic atmosphere and an alto vocal echoing from deep in a well. The track is on her EP titled Pensive Pop. Hypnotic listening.

THE BOYKINZ / “Girls Night”
Writers: Alona Boykin/Anale Boykin/Cory Moore/Craig King/Kylan Boykin/Nytere Boykin; Producers: none listed; Label: The BoykinZ
– These four Black Nashville vocalists harmonize as only blood sisters can. An encounter with Shania Twain on Kelly Clarkson’s TV show led to an invitation to appear with the superstar on her June 7 concert at GEODIS park. They are still working on their album, but already have more than half a million followers on social media. The BoykinZ current single has hip-hop rhythms, dancefloor style and a country vibe. For an even more ear-opening experience, check out the YouTube footage of them singing Dolly’s “Jolene” in a cappella harmony on that same Kelly Clarkson Show.

RHIANNON GIDDENS / “You’re the One”
Writers: Lalenja Harrington/Rhiannon Giddens; Producer: Jack Splash; Label: Nonesuch
– This is the title track of her first solo album in six years (due Aug. 18). Previously noted for her old-time country and quasi-classical explorations, the set also marks her first collection of all original songs. The sound here is attractive, romantic pop-country with her fluid vocal layered over a track rippling with mandolin, fiddle and banjo notes plus crashing chorus percussion.

VALERIE JUNE & BILL FRISELL / “Handsome Molly”
Writer: Don Watson; Producer: Matthew Stevens; Label: FLi Records/Budde Music
– This is drawn from the Doc Watson tribute album I Am a Pilgrim. Both artists are big Americana favorites. The track is a traditional Anglo-American folk song, and June’s lead vocal sounds exactly like an Appalachian mountaineer, backed by Frisell’s ethereal, loopy strumming. She is a delightfully genre-defying Black Tennessee artist who has always followed her own bliss.

DISClaimer Single Reviews: Carrie Underwood ‘Rocks Out On This Defiant Stomper’

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It’s an all-female country roundup in this edition of DISClaimer.

Tanya Tucker, Brandy Clark and Joydyn Shellhart have the best songs. There are memories of Tina Turner and Olivia Newton John lingering in the air. Hannah Dasher, Harper Grace and Morgan Wade sound like stars in training.

If there’s a downside to all of this, it’s that this stack of releases is way ballad heavy. The two ear catching tempo tunes belong to Runaway June and to Carrie Underwood, who wins the Disc of the Day award.

To our list of DisCovery winners, add the name of the HuneyFire duo. They have all the spark needed to start a fire.

HARPER GRACE / “Oh Say Can You See”
Writers: Harper Grace/Alex Kline/Scott Stepakoff; Producers: Alex Kline/Tedd T; Label: Curb Records
– I am wild about her “Sparkle” debut single. This autobiographical ballad track is promise fulfilled. It’s an anti-bullying lyric addressed to her hurting, 11-year-old self. She tells herself that she’ll get off her knees and sing to crowds one day.

BRANDY CLARK & BRANDI CARLILE / “Dear Insecurity”
Writers: Brandy Clark/Michael Pollack; Producer: Brandi Carlile; Label: Warner Records
– Clark is firing on all cylinders this year. She is Tony nominated for the Shucked Broadway musical, and she has a new album produced by Americana superstar Brandi Carlile, who is her duet partner on this lilting ballad. Strings soar while the brilliant song craftswoman weaves her magic spell. Have I mentioned I also think that she is an awesome singer?

HUNEYFIRE / “Too Late for Sorry”
Writers: Cheaza Figueroa/Jason Pennock; Producers: Cheaza Figueroa/Jason Pennock; Label: Double Decades Entertainment
– This is an Afro-Latina mother-daughter country act. Both women sing the fire outta this torrid heartache ballad. They swap verses powerfully, but don’t actually harmonize, which is a disappointment. Mom Cheaza Figueroa is the daughter of former Ikette Barbara Cook, who danced and sang backing the late, great Tina Turner. Daughter Marriana Nevarez’s father Alfred Nevarez is a founding member of the hit pop group All-4-One (”I Swear,” “I Can Love You Like That”).

CARRIE UNDERWOOD / “Out of That Truck”
Writers: Carrie Underwood/David Garcia/Lydia Vaughan; Producers: David Garcia/Carrie Underwood; Label: Capitol Nashville
– Carrie rocks out on this defiant stomper addressed to her ex. She vows that no matter how hard he tries, he’ll never erase her memory from his truck, because they shared so much in it. A winner.

HANNAH DASHER / “Ugly Houses”
Writers: Hannah Dasher/Robert Arthur; Producer: Ilya Toshinskiy; Label: HD
– Delightful. I dig everything about this bodacious artist. What’s not to like? She has wit and charm and is as country as grits. She even has her own YouTube channel.

TANYA TUCKER / “When the Rodeo Is Over”
Writers: Billy Don Burns/Craig Dillingham/Brandi Carlile; Producers: Shooter Jennings/Brandi Carlile; Label: Fantasy
– Sad and wistful. Tucker pushes emotional buttons as she unspools the tale of a broken-down, wino cowboy who used to be a rodeo champ. This downbeat narrative ballad is what country music does best. Bless her for always having her heart in the right place. The new album is titled Sweet Western Sound. And it is.

MORGAN WADE / “Psychopath”
Writer: Morgan Wade; Producer: Sadler Vaden; Label: Ladylike Records/RCA Nashville
– The title tune of Wade’s sophomore album doesn’t sound like you might expect, given that it is such a emotionally charged word. Rather, it’s a lilting love song. Listen for yourself. I think you’ll dig it.

KELLY LANG & OLIVIA NEWTON JOHN / “How Can You Mend a Broken Heart”
Writers: Barry Gibb/Robin Gibb; Producer: Kelly Lang; Label: Primary Wave Music
– The late Olivia’s swan song was this duet with the lustrous Nashville vocalist Kelly Lang. The ultra melodic 1971 Bee Gees oldie sounds shimmering when they harmonize.

JORDYN SHELLHART / “Maybe Someday You’ll Have a Daughter”
Writers: Jordyn Shellhart/Courtney Dashe; Producer: Cameron Jaymes; Label: Warner Music Nashville
– When people ask me who I’m excited about these days, I tell them, “Jordyn Shellhart.” This extraordinary song is one reason why. In the lyric, she gives herself to a no-good guy who breaks her heart. Her loss of innocence, her abandonment and her pain spill out eloquently as she muses about his future. Her debut album is titled Primrose. I urge you to experience it.

KARLEY SCOTT COLLINS / “Hands on the Wheel”
Writers: Karley Scott Collins/Nathan Chapman/Natalie Hemby; Producers: Karley Scott Collins/Nathan Chapman; Label: Sony Music Nashville
– The title tune of her debut EP is a moody, bluesy and utterly compelling mid-tempo rush. Her gravely, aching voice grabs your attention and doesn’t let go. She’s drivin’ and cryin,’ trying to keep it between the lines as she speeds to heal a broken heart.

LORI McKENNA & HILLARY LINDSEY / “Killing Me”
Writers: Lori McKenna/Hillary Lindsey/Luke Laird; Producer: Dave Cobb; Label CN Records
– This has a charming, jingle-jangle quality. The track rumbles along merrily, but the lyric is anything but merry. “Would it kill you to be happy?/Because trying to make you happy is killing me.” She’s pretty miserable, folks, no matter what the rhythm section says.

RUNAWAY JUNE / “Make Me Wanna Smoke”
Writers: Jason Sellers/Ella Langley/Bobby Hamrick; Producer: Mickey Jack Cones; Label: Quartz Hill Records
– Jennifer Wayne, Natalie Stovall and Stevie Woodward romp their way through this thumping urban rocker with sass to spare. The relationship might be wrong, but she’s going for it anyway.

DISClaimer Single Reviews: Lee Brice Honors Late Collaborator, Kyle Jacobs

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Kyle Jacobs and Lee Brice

We’re mixing it up with hard country, pop country, blues, rock and folk-pop in this edition of DISClaimer.

For real meat-and-potatoes country music, I prescribe Brennen Leigh, Thompson Square, Chase Matthew and Colby Acuff.

We have two excellent entries by Black country stylists this week. One is from a previous favorite, O.N.E. The Duo. The other comes from our DISCovery Award winner, Tae Lewis.

Towering above everybody else is the sublime single by Lee Brice, which earns the Disc of the Day prize.

TAE LEWIS / “Summer of 21”
Writers: Brian Alexander/Mary Kutter/Chris Sligh/Heath Warren/Tae Lewis; Producers: Taylor Bias/Lukas Scott Klingensmith; Label: Tae Lewis Music
– Nostalgia for that summertime beach romance with oomphy production to match his sterling, range-y, tenor-vocal performance. Best debut disc I’ve heard in ages. Lewis is one of the Black Opry talents.

JD DARLING / “1995”
Writer: Jonathan Darling; Producers: John Kennedy/JD Darling; Label: JD Darling
– He has an honest, slightly pitchy baritone, and the spare production is attractive. His song is kinda simplistic, sing-songy and overly wordy, but the overall listening experience goes down smoothly. He’s still on the amateur side of things. But keep him writing. He’s on the path.

LEE BRICE / “Save the Roses”
Writers: Lee Brice/Joe Leathers/Kyle Jacobs; Producers: Ben Glover/Kyle Jacobs; Label: Curb Records
– I love this man. He’s a song magnet who gets to me every time. Brice is a superb country singer who delivers a lyric like no one else in this business. In this case, it is a powerful, chesty elegy to the late songwriter Kyle Jacobs, and I promise it will hit you in your heart.

BRENNEN LEIGH / “I Ain’t Through Honky Tonkin Yet”
Writers: Brennen Leigh/John Scott Sherrill; Producer: Chris Scruggs; Label: Signature Sounds
– I’ve been a fan of this talented Texan for years. She is unashamedly country down to her fingertips, unafraid to bask in fiddles and steel while delivering songs of beers & tears. This is the title tune of her Nashville album, which drops June 16. On board in the CD’s cast are Rodney Crowell, Chris Scruggs and Marty Stuart. This exquisitely retro tune will make you want to grab a partner and two-step across that dance floor. To coin a phrase—This is music to my ears.

CHASE MATTHEW / “Where There’s Smoke”
Writers: Rodney Clawson/Alysa Vanderheym/Josh Miller/Jordan Reynolds; Producer: Alysa Vanderheym; Label: Warner Music Nashville/Chase Matthew Music
– Matthew’s new 25-song album arrives on June 9, but there’s already a lot to preview. Its single is “Love You Again.” The collection’s title tune is “Come Get Your Memory.” There’s a video of “County Line.” Yet another advance is this track marrying heartache and doubt with driving, top-down energy. Modern country with a twang.

DOLLY PARTON / “World on Fire”
Writer: Dolly Parton; Producer: Kent Wells; Label: Big Machine Records, LLC
– Dolly premiered this stomping, apocalyptic, thunderous call for love and unity on last week’s ACM awards show. She’s channeling Queen, U2 and Springsteen as she introduces us to her new rock personna. The chanted barn burner will be found on Rockstar, her 30-track, star-studded rock collection coming this fall. An audio revelation.

O.N.E. The Duo / “Hearts Like Mine”
Writers: Tekitha Washington/Prana Supreme Diggs/Rebecca Lynn Howard/Elisha Hoffman/Lincoln Morris; Producer: Dann Huff; Label: Visionary Media Group
– The mother-daughter team displays a glossy, melodic, pop-ish sound on this outing. Their wafting, gently harmonized, feminine bopper is simply lovely. It joins the video of “Feels Good” and last year’s “Stuck in the Middle” as advance tracks. All three songs are drawn from Blood Harmony, O.N.E. The Duo’s debut album, which drops Aug. 11.

RILEY GREEN & LUKE COMBS / “Different ‘Round Here”
Writers: Randy Montana/Jonathan David Singleton/Riley Green; Producer: Dan Huff, Jimmy Harnen; Label: BMLG Records
– Let’s see: So far, Mr. Green has released duets with Justin Moore, Thomas Rhett and Dustin Lynch. Now here’s another. This redneck anthem features country king Combs. It pre-supposes that their hometown is “different” because it can tell “right is right and wrong is wrong.” Unlike the rest of us?

THOMPSON SQUARE / “Without You”
Writers: Tim Nichols/Anthony Olympia/Brent Rupard; Producers: Derek George, Mickey Jack Cones; Label: Quartz Hill Records
– Rippling banjo notes set the merry mood as the husband-wife duo rolls out of the driveway and out onto the open road with this zesty, made-for-summer ditty. Keifer sings lead and Shawna shadows him in perfect harmony. The electric guitars soar as the track hits its stride. Highly recommended.

LINDSAY ELL / “Sweet Spot”
Writers: Lindsay Ell/Mark Campbell/Pete Groenwald; Producers: Mark Campbell/Peter Groenwald; Label: WM Canada
– The Canadian guitar-slinging country troubadour unleashes a punchy, pop production that motors along steadily with relentless beats in an echoey atmosphere. Breezy and pleasant. North of the border, she’s the host of Canada’s Got Talent. In a recent People magazine story, she revealed that she has been battling an eating disorder.

GRIFFEN PALMER / “Put Me Through Hello”
Writers: Griffen Palmer/Geoff Warburton; Producer: Joey Moi; Label: Big Loud Records
– He lets her put him through “Hell-oh” every time his ex calls him and reels him back in. The rapid-fire delivery is expertly done, and the production has just the right touches of electric instrumentation, thumping rhythm and swirling atmosphere. This is drawn from Palmer’s debut album, the recently released Unlearn. Nicely done, bro.

TRACY NELSON & WILLIE NELSON / “Honky Tonkin’”
Writer: Hank Williams; Producers: Roger Alan Nichols/Tracy Nelson; Label: BMG
– On her new Life Don’t Miss Nobody album, timeless Nashville blues diva Tracy Nelson dips into the catalogs of Ma Rainey, Willie Dixon, Chuck Berry, Sonny Boy Williamson, Sister Rosetta Tharpe, Gene McDaniels, the Nevilles and Stephen Foster. Among the highlights is her reunion with Willie. The two last scored a blazing duet success with “After the Fire Is Gone” in 1974. On this upbeat. loosey-goosey rendition of the Hank Williams classic, the two are equally charming. The hot harmonica licks by Mickey Raphael don’t hurt a bit. Throughout the collection, producer Roger Nichols’ tracks are brilliantly imaginative.

COLBY ACUFF / “Playing God Again”
Writers: Colby Acuff/Dwight Baker; Producer: Eddie Spear; Label: Sony Music Nashville
– This Idaho singer-songwriter has issued three self-penned indie albums. For his Sony debut, he trots out a fiddle-led romper that tells us to “sit back and let the future unfold” and don’t try to control what you can’t. His energy and his reedy, heartfelt voice are infectious. Also check out the lilting folkie ballad that is his album’s title tune, “Western White Pines.”