DISClaimer Single Reviews: Carly Pearce Is ‘Delightfully Snarky & Sassy’

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Carly Pearce. Photo: Luke Rogers

Ballads dominate this edition of DISClaimer, but a few of the country stars are making toe-tapping sounds as well.

Our balladeers include Riley Green, Reba McEntire and Braxton Keith. Willie & Shooter are emoting so mellow that they’re nodding off.

For tempo tunes, turn to Shaboozey, Vincent Mason and the team of Ella Langley & Morgan Wallen. Not to mention feisty Carly Pearce, who wins the Disc of the Day award.

Returning to ballad mode, we welcome Steven McClintock as our DISCovery Award winner this week.

VINCENT MASON / “Don’t Ask Me”
Writers: Hillary Lindsey/Jack Rauton/Luke Laird/Vincent Mason; Producers: Brett Truitt, Jake Gear, Vincent Mason; Label: MCA Nashville/Music Soup/Interscope Records
– Nominated as New Male Artist by the ACM, Mason has a new uptempo ditty that exudes boyish charm. The acoustic-based track bubbles along with jaunty innocence while the lyric paints a picture of a heartbroken fellow who has no one to blame but himself.

KIP MOORE / “Faith in the Wind”
Writers: Andrew DeRoberts/Kip Moore/Luke Preston; Producers: Andrew DeRoberts, Kip Moore; Label: KM
– A solitary soul sings of his journey into a mystery future while a lustrous, echoey track surrounds his meditation. He’s on a quest, but does not know his destination in life. Haunting and highly listenable.

ASHLEY McBRYDE / “Lines in the Carpet”
Writers: Caroline Watkins/Lauren Hungate/Lori McKenna; Producer: John Osborne; Label: Warner Records Nashville
– “What If We Don’t” remains the single. But McBryde continues to tease her forthcoming album Wild (due May 8) with this driving, urgent cry of the heart. A woman continues doing her day-after-day domestic chores feeling trapped and miserable, but her husband is oblivious. McBryde continues her unbroken reputation for quality country.

SHABOOZEY / “Born to Die”
Writers: none listed; Producer: none listed; Label: American Dogwood
– Shaboozey’s next album will be a concept collection that tells a tale of western revenge. Its lead single rushes forward with rhythmic energy. “Raise a glass to always living life like we ain’t born to die,” he sings in the dark party anthem. Arguably the most innovative and creative sonic personality in contemporary country music. Long may he sing.

ELLA LANGLEY & MORGAN WALLEN / “I Can’t Love You Anymore”
Writer: Ella Langley; Producer: none listed; Label: Columbia/SAWGOD
– These two red-hot stars team up for a stirring, breezy, rhythmic duet with swapped verses and Wallen harmonizing nicely on the choruses.

RILEY GREEN / “My Way”
Writer: Riley Green; Producer: Dann Huff; Label: Nashville Harbor Records & Entertainment
– Anticipating his role on TV’s Marshals (airing this Sunday), Green issues a baritone ballad of sad resignation over a failed romance. His fluid, intimate, expressive delivery is framed by gently plucked guitar, bass, dobro and strings. Country eloquence. The song will be featured during Green’s episode of the CBS-TV hit.

STEVEN McCLINTOCK / “To You From Me”
Writers: Richard Addrisi/Steven McClintock; Producer: none listed; Label: SM
– Record promo veteran Bill Wence has been boosting indie artists for 52 years. His latest discovery sings this sweet, melodic love song in a soft tenor that is earnest and sincere. Piano and steel accompaniment add to the romantic mood. Co-writer Addrisi (1941-2025) was best known for penning the evergreen “Never My Love.”

CARLY PEARCE / “You Can Have Him”
Writers: Carly Pearce/Carter Faith/Lauren Hungate/Tofer Brown; Producer: none listed; Label: Blue Highway Records
– Delightfully snarky and sassy. Addressing the gals around her, Pearce tells them they’re welcome to a dude with loose morals and a wandering eye. Packed with attitude and personality, not to mention twangin’ steel.

BRAXTON KEITH / “Don’t No More”
Writers: Braxton Keith/Liz Rose/John Pierce; Producer: Alex Torrez, David Dorn; Label: Warner Records Nashville
– She’s left him behind. Evidently, she’s quite good at completely blocking out their past, and he reports it all in this yearning ballad. Pristinely produced, well written and sung with heart.

SHOOTER JENNINGS & WILLIE NELSON / “When I’m Stoned”
Writer: Jason Phillip Boland; Producer: Shooter Jennings; Label: HELL PONY ARCHIVES
– These two celebrated 4/20 this week as the annual weed-awareness date with this ditty. It’s way beyond “laid back” and sounds like they recorded it in an oil drum. Both vocalists seem to be meandering around looking for the melody. The band is Jason Boland & The Stragglers, whose original version is better.

CORB LUND & HAYES CARLL / “Much Too Young (To Feel This Damn Old)”
Writers: Garth Brooks/Randy Taylor; Producer: none listed; Label: New West Records
– These two Americana stars have a strikingly effective arrangement of the Garth Brooks classic. It’s just their voices, an acoustic guitar and a cello, and it is absolutely brilliant and stunning. The broken rodeo man in the lyric comes truly alive here. Open your ears for something utterly refreshing, and play this.

REBA McENTIRE / “One Night In Tulsa”
Writers: Kylie Frey/Neal Coty/Thom McHugh; Producer: Dave Cobb; Label: Rockin’ R Records/MCA
– Country heartbreak in the throat of a Great. Every singer in this industry needs to listen to this ballad for a lesson in excellence.

SHAWN CAMP / “Sis Draper”
Writers: Guy Clark/Shawn Camp; Producer: Shawn Camp; Label: Truly Handmade Records
– Shawn is at No. 1 on the bluegrass chart this month with the title tune of his The Ghost of Sis Draper concept album. Draper was a fiddle hero of Camp’s when he was growing up in Arkansas. His homage to her is a ethereal, bluesy lament with fiddle notes weaving in and out of the mix. His misty, moody vocal is exquisitely dramatic. Essential listening.

DISClaimer Single Reviews: Melissa Etheridge & Chris Stapleton Team For Disc Of The Day

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Melissa Etheridge & Chris Stapleton.

Whether in romantic ballads or rollicking tempo tunes, there’s a definite summertime feel in this week’s country tracks.

The session was dominated by two outstanding duet performances. One unites Jamie Floyd and Jake Hoot, who sing their faces off in “The Blade.” The other pairs rock superstar Melissa Etheridge with country titan Chris Stapleton. Their electrifying combination as both writers and singers earns them the Disc of the Day award.

Texas strikes again as The Droptines earn a DISCovery Award.

BRETT YOUNG & COLBIE CAILLAT / “If the World Was Ending”
Writers: Jonathan Percy Saxe/Julia Michaels; Producer: Noah Needleman; Label: BMX
– Young and Caillat put their spin on this pop tune, and the result is elegantly listenable. It ain’t country, but it is quite lovely.

LAUREN ALAINA / “Raining Whiskey”
Writers: none listed; Producer: none listed; Label: Big Loud Records
– There’s a little too much that’s computer generated in the production, but her performance is solid. The heartbreak lyric is clever.

TY MYERS / “Me Neither”
Writer: Ty Myers; Producer: Brandon Hood; Label: RECORDS Nashville/Columbia/Outlier Recordings
– Gently persuasive. The pop groove swirls around his softly caressing vocal delivery. The airy track frames a romantic message. This teenage singer-songwriter has a definite heartthrob vibe going on.

MELISSA ETHERIDGE & CHRIS STAPLETON / “The Other Side of Blue”
Writers: Chris Stapleton/Melissa Etheridge; Producers: Melissa Etheridge, Shooter Jennings; Label: Sun Records
– Ultra dramatic, brilliant work. Both vocalists have off-the-charts vocal charisma, and together they are simply awesome. The song eloquently addresses the agony of grief and its ultimately spirit cleansing aftermath. You’ll find it on her essential new album, Rise.

GRAHAM BARHAM / “BREAKUP (DOWN)”
Writers: Cole Miracle/Graham Barham/Jared Cotter/Jay Sean/Jeremy Skaller/Lydia Vaughan/Robert Larow/Sam Bergeson; Producer: Sam Bergeson; Label: Sony Music Nashville
– Welcome to “Club Country,” where dance beats meet honky-tonk heartache.

LUKE GRIMES / “Drink Drink Drink”
Writers: Dave Cobb/Jessie Jo Dillon/Luke Grimes; Producer: Dave Cobb; Label: MCA
– A rousing barroom anthem, propelled by banjo and fiddle. Grimes hearty baritone is joined by a gang sing-along on the choruses. Pour me a double. The singer’s Marshals neo-western TV series airs on CBS on Sunday nights.

EMILY ANN ROBERTS / “My Future”
Writers: Emily Ann Roberts/Micah Wilshire/Shane Minor; Producer: Brandon Hood; Label: RECORDS Nashville/Sony Music Nashville
– Sunny, jaunty, bopping and charmingly nutty. She takes one look and goes into a giddy fantasy of plunging into lasting love. Her saucy delivery has one built-in smile after another.

THE DROPTINES / “Snowed In”
Writer: Kenneth C Arthur; Producer: Taylor Tatsch; Label: Big Loud Texas
– Rootsy. The raspy vocal, haunting lyric and atmospheric production mark this Americana band as a force of the future. The hard-working Texas quintet has been doing things the old-fashioned way, grinding out gig after gig and winning fans one by one.

ASHLEY MONROE / “I Hate Nashville”
Writers: Ashley Monroe/Luke Laird; Producers: Ashley Monroe, Luke Laird; Label: Mountainrose Sparrow
– What’s there to say when you love country music, but it doesn’t love you back? Say it in this lovely, lilting song that’s both a love letter and an unrequited lament. As always, her voice is a beacon of honesty and her writing is three chords and the truth. Loving this.

JAMIE FLOYD & JAKE HOOT / “The Blade”
Writers: Allen Shamblin/Jamie Floyd/Marc Beeson; Producer: Jimmy Thow; Label: Jamie Floyd Music
– Originally popularized by Ashley Monroe, “The Blade” retains its haunting power in this duet between Floyd and The Voice competitor Hoot. They harmonize beautifully in their full-throated, chill-bump inducing arrangement. Echoey electric guitar and steel add the icing on this delicious masterwork.

JACKSON DEAN / “Hey Mississippi”
Writers: Jackson Dean/Jessie Jo Dillon/Luke Dick; Producer: Luke Dick; Label: Blue Highway Records
– He’s smitten with a Delta darlin’ in this magnolia-scented ditty. The understated production frames his relaxed vocal perfectly with its pristine guitar riffs. The softly swaying vibe sounds like languid Southern summer.

JO DEE MESSINA / “Don’t Let Them Hide Your Beautiful”
Writers: Blessing Offor/David Spencer/Jo Dee Messina; Producer: David Spencer; Label: Dreambound Records
– Sparkling and twinkling with upbeat positivity. Messina sings with immense verve here, and the track bops along smartly. A sweetly delivered feminist anthem.

WARREN ZEIDERS / “Drinking Game”
Writers: Elof Loelv/Evan Blair/J Kash/Jesse Fink/Michael Pollack/Warren Zeiders; Producer: Evan Blair; Label: Warner Records
– This takes off with a woosh and a rush as Zeiders tackles a tempo tune that barrels down the track with monster energy. A breezy carnival ride.

DISClaimer Single Reviews: Dan + Shay Share ‘Heartfelt Message’

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Dan + Shay. Photo: Robby Klein

It’s “Duo Day” at DISClaimer.

This collection of collaborations demonstrates that there is strength in numbers. It’s a growing trend, and you’ll hear why.

The Disc of the Day belongs to Dan + Shay. The Irish husband and wife team of Kirwan is our DISCovery Award act of the day.

BRAXTON KEITH & TYLA RODRIGUES / “Do I Ever Cross Your Mind”
Writer: Dolly Parton; Producer: none listed; Label: Warner Records Nashville
– We turn to Oz for this refreshing oldie revival. Keith has been touring there, and Rodrigues is an Aussie up-and-comer. He is one of my favorite new honky-tonk stylists, and she’s quite a country belter, herself. They make quite a team.

BILLY RAY CYRUS & NOAH CYRUS / “On Our Way Along”
Writer: Braison Cyrus; Producers: Braison Cyrus, Ryan Rasmussen; Label: Billion Streams Entertainment
– Billy Ray croaks his way through this slow, moody contemplation. His barely-there singing is accompanied by daughter Noah’s soft, almost buried “echo” vocal. A dense, electronic soundscape backs them. Pass.

DAILEY & VINCENT / “Moon Shines on the Still”
Writers: Bill Whyte/Laura Leigh Jones Robertson; Producer: none listed; Label: DV
– These bluegrass superstars unleash a torrent of rhythm on this rapid-fire salute to backwoods moonshiners. The thrilling tenor vocals are augmented by dazzling mandolin, banjo and guitar runs. An absolute audio delight.

DAN + SHAY / “Say So”
Writers: Dan Smyers/David Hodges/Jimmy Robbins/Shay Mooney; Producers: Dan Smyers, Scott Hendricks; Label: Warner Records Nashville
– Lushly melodic and beautifully produced, this is a heartfelt message of suicide prevention. Kudos for an outstanding performance as well as for the team’s social consciousness.

MO PITNEY & JAKE WORTHINGTON / “Wake Up and Smell the Country”
Writers: Mo Pitney/Wyatt McCubbin; Producers: Jim “Moose” Brown, Mo Pitney; Label: Curb Records
– Rollicking, twangin’ and steel soaked. Both men are stone-country stylists. Together, they’re hard to beat. Naturally, Merle Haggard and George Jones are name checked.

JENNA PAULETTE & JOHN MORGAN / “The Dirt”
Writers: Hillary Lindsey/Jenna Paulette/John Morgan/Will Bundy; Producer: Will Bundy; Label: Leo33
– Working-class romance becomes duet nirvana as these two match voices. Paulette’s penetrating lead voice is joined by a note-perfect harmony vocal by Morgan. It’s a super-strong song of lasting love made even stronger via this collaboration. Play this on repeat.

KIRWAN THE BAND & CLAY WALKER / “Detours”
Writers: Caitriona Maria Kirwan/Colm James Kirwan/Matthew Craig Johnson; Producer: Matthew Craig Johnson; Label: Kirwan Music Group
– Uplifting, encouraging and stirring. The husband-wife Kirwan duo carries this message of hope and resilience with a rumbling backbeat. Walker chimes in, but this is the Irish team’s record all the way. Recommended.

THELMA & JAMES / “Alternate Ending”
Writers: Jake Etheridge/Josh Jenkins/MacKenzie Porter/Maggie Chapman; Producer: Lonas; Label: Big Loud Records
– This young pair is currently opening for Luke Combs on tour. They have a charming sound with his heartbroken tenor blending with her aching soprano harmony. The churning, rhythm-happy track contrasts with the song’s downbeat tale. I was totally taken in by this performance. “James” is Jake Etheridge, and “Thelma” is Mackenzie Porter.

SKIP EWING & MAE ESTES / “Stronger Where You’re Broken”
Writer: Skip Ewing; Producers: Bryan Sutton, F. Reid Shippen, Skip Ewing; Label: Write! Records
– Veteran Ewing and newcomer Estes sound splendid together on this tempo tune of encouragement. It helps that he is such a masterful songwriter. She harmonizes with soft strength and perfectly placed ad libs. She should have been louder in the mix.

AVERY ANNA & SAM BARBER / “Fear in God”
Writers: Avery Anna/Sam Barber; Producer: David Fanning; Label: Warner Records Nashville
– This is the lead track of Avery Anna’s new EP. Its drowsy pace, meandering melody and muddy-sounding rock guitar don’t sound very “country.”

JESSE & NOAH / “On Again, Off Again”
Writer: Noah Bellamy; Producers: Jesse Bellamy, Noah Bellamy; Label: Usonia
– These two are the sons of David Bellamy of The Bellamy Brothers. On this honky-tonk ballad they’re joined by Tess Frizzell, who is the daughter of Shelly West & Allen Frizzell and the granddaughter of Dottie West. The pedigrees show: Both Noah and Tess display effortless grace in their vocal performance. Check out the video: It was shot at Hank Snow’s old Rainbow Ranch digs in Madison.

WILSON FAIRCHILD / “Lean On Me”
Writer: Bill Withers; Producer: Michael Sykes; Label: Gaither Music Group
– And speaking of second-generation acts, these fellows are also the children of country royalty. They are Wil Reid and Langdon Reid, the sons of Harold Reid and Don Reid of The Statler Brothers. True to their heritage, their countrified take on this Bill Withers classic is drenched in multi-part harmonies. This is a superb single. You’ll be singing along by the time they get to the penultimate, hand-clapped chorus.

MARCUS HUMMON & LEVI HUMMON / “Bless the Broken Road”
Writers: Bobby Boyd/Jeff Hanna/Marcus Hummon; Producer: Marcus Hummon; Label: 3686 RECORDS
– Papa Marcus and son Levi have been performing this classic together at various get-togethers. Their version is eloquently lovely, infused with sincerity and intimacy. Levi’s perfect tenor lead is accompanied solely by Marcus’s rippling piano work and low-harmony vocal blend. This is an acoustic jewel that warms the spirit and tugs at the heart.

DISClaimer Single Reviews: Lee Brice Wins Disc Of The Day

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Lee Brice

DISClaimer delves into a variety-pack of emotions this week.

We have humor thanks to Hannah Dasher, politics thanks to Amy Grant & Ruby Amanfu, party-happy silliness thanks to Breland, bluesy wistfulness from Thomas Rhett, retro energy from The Wagoneers, and gentle heartbreak from Ernest.

Lee Brice has the Disc of the Day with something soulful, spiritual and soaring. Hand a DISCovery Award to the new Kentucky band Sons of Habit.

HANNAH DASHER / “Waffle House”
Writers: Hannah Dasher/Mark Sanders; Producer: Hannah Dasher; Label: HD
– How timely of her. Dasher is celebrating the release of her debut cookbook, Stand By Your Pan, with a food-related new lyric. In this hardcore honky-tonker, she calls out a bozo who expects her to cook for him when he comes home drunk at 3 a.m. “Go find someone else/To make your patty melt” because “I ain’t your Waffle House.” Yee-haw.

ERNEST / “Deep Blue”
Writers: Ernest Keith Smith/Grady Block/Hank Compton/Jamie McLaughlin/Rocky Block; Producers: ERNEST, Jacob Durrett; Label: Big Loud Records
– Smooth sailing. While fiddles saw, Ernest delivers a mellow, breezy, heartache lament with a gently rolling rhythm, an ear-wormy melody and a lyric sprinkled with wit.

SONS OF HABIT / “Annabelle”
Writers: Frank Cassidy/Hagan Edge/Mitchell Douglas/Nathan Ross; Producer: Taylor Kimball; Label: Lucille/Republic Records
– Atmospheric, with plucked acoustic guitars giving way to an echoey soundscape. The super creative production frames an aching lead vocal describing an enigmatic lover. You have my attention. Please send more.

LUKE BRYAN / “Country and She Knows It”
Writers: Josh Miller/Matt Dragstrem/Parker Welling; Producers: Jeff Stevens, Jody Stevens, Matt Dragstrem; Label: Capitol Records Nashville
– Truck, booze, dirt road, tattoo, boots, Strait reference. Check, check and double check. The wooshing, forward-thrust tempo wraps the whole thing up in a terrifically listenable package. Radio ready.

ASHLEY COOKE / “xs”
Writers: Ashley Cooke/Ashley Gorley/Emily Weisband/Will Weatherly; Producer: Dann Huff; Label: Big Loud Records
– Bruised and hurting, but with spirit unbowed. He doesn’t understand that “crossing lines makes x’s.” She mulls and muses in a slowly paced ballad of resignation and recrimination.

THOMAS RHETT / “Georgia On My Mind”
Writers: Hoagy Carmichael/Stuart Gorrell; Producer: Julian Bunetta; Label: Blue Highway Records
– More than 1,000 artists have recorded this everlasting American classic, including such indelible stylists as Ray Charles, Billie Holiday, The Righteous Brothers, Willie Nelson, Tom Jones, Michael Bolton, and James Brown. Rhett’s take on it is drawling, echoey, bluesy, and quite effective. He might not be indelible, but you have to admire his moxie.

MONTE WARDEN & THE WAGONEERS / “Doghouse Flowers”
Writers: Brandi Warden/Montgomery Warden; Producers: Brandi Warden, Mas Palermo; Label: MW
– Legendary Texas music Hall of Famers The Wagoneers return with their first new single in decades. It’s a delightful, dizzy, rockabilly rampage with edgy, stuttering energy. Leader Monte Warden is an Austin institution with evergreen audio charisma. A welcome and long overdue comeback.

RODNEY CROWELL / “Before I Hung Your Picture on the Wall”
Writer: Rodney Crowell; Producer: Tyler Bryant; Label: New West Records
– The country-rocking track churns and burns while Rodney sings of leaving his wandering ways behind in favor of True Love. Written and performed by a defining, enduring country-music master.

RITA WILSON / “Michaelangelo”
Writers: Amy Wadge/Rita Wilson; Producers: Dave Cobb, Rita Wilson; Label: Sing It Loud Records
– Wilson’s lustrous vocal pierces the airy, piano-and-choir ballad like an arrow of emotional truth. A firm, confident step into A/C music.

BRELAND / “In My Truck”
Writers: Andre R. Young/Curtis James Jackson/Daniel Breland/Jeremy “Kinetics” Dussolliet/Jim Lavigne/Michael A Elizondo/Nate Sander/Tim “One Love” Sommers; Producers: naebird, One Love, Sam Sumser, Sean Small; Label: Bad Realm/Atlantic
– Upbeat positivity infuses this invitation to party. It ain’t exactly deep, but the vibe is right. The artist hosts his fifth annual Breland & Friends benefit concert at the Ryman next Wednesday (April 8). The show supports at-risk youth through the Oasis Center.

INGRID ANDRESS / “Taillights”
Writers: Ingrid Andress/Lydia Sutherland/Paul DiGiovanni; Producer: Paul DiGiovanni; Label: Warner Records Nashville
– This sassy country rocker has the tale of gal who is wise to his every move. She tells him he didn’t get away with anything, because “I saw your taillights comin.’” Feisty and fresh.

LEE BRICE / “When the Kingdom Comes”
Writers: Billy Montana/Jon Stone/Lee Brice/Sara Brice; Producer: none listed; Label: Curb Records
– Torrid and heartfelt. When Brice is fired up like this, few can touch him as a communicator. At the end of the day, Love is all that matters.

AMY GRANT & RUBY AMANFU / “How Do We Get There From Here”
Writers: Amy Grant/Ruby Amanfu; Producer: Mac McAnally; Label: AG
– These women call for community, unity, compassion and collective action to heal our troubled times. Amanfu is powerful on her verses and lends soprano harmony vocals throughout Grant’s urgent plea to move forward together. The stirring duet single commemorates the three-year anniversary of Nashville’s Covenant School shooting.

DISClaimer Single Reviews: Ashley McBryde Is ‘Utterly Magnificent’

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Ashley McBryde. Photo: Nathan Chapman

Country music displays some substance this week.

Romantic troubles are creatively explored by Parker McCollum, Mitchell Tenpenny and Meghan Patrick. Existential musing infuses the new sounds by The Jack Wharff Band, Mumford & Sons with Chris Stapleton and Jelly Roll. Tigirlily Gold turns country cliches upside down. Mike Parker’s single exudes production creativity.

Rising above them all is Ashley McBryde with a simply brilliant piece of songwriting that earns a Disc of the Day award.

Add Alison Nichols to the list of current creative country females. And give her a DISCovery Award while you’re at it.

THE JACK WHARFF BAND / “Strange”
Writers: Evan Novoa/Garrett Howell/Jack Wharff/Joe Clemmons/Ryan Atchison; Producer: Eddie Spear; Label: Big Machine Records
– Drowsy and languid, with painful nostalgia for the man he used to be. A sonic stew of edgy rock, creamy harmonies and folkie sincerity. The band plays the Ryman next Wednesday (April 1).

TIGIRLILY GOLD / “Country & Midwestern”
Writers: none listed; Producer: none listed; Label: Sony Music Nashville
– Very cute. It bops along, name-checking all the northern things that are “country,” as opposed to the Southern cliches. Essential listening: “’Bless your heart’ don’t mean ‘Buck you’…When the Cowboys lose, we don’t shed a tear/It’s ‘Go, Pack, go’ ‘round here.”

PARKER McCOLLUM / “Killin’ Me”
Writers: Monty Criswell/Parker McCollum/Randy Rogers; Producers: Eric Masse, Frank Liddell; Label: MCA
– Echoey twanging guitars swirl around while she seduces him with every look and every move. Beautifully produced and sung.

ALISON NICHOLS / “Box Wine Problems”
Writers: Alison Nichols/Sherrie Austin/Will Rambeaux; Producers: Ilya Toshinski, Will Rambeaux; Label: BMG/BBR Music Group
– It seems that the “problems” in the title aren’t so bad. In fact, they’re a real good time. A saucy tempo tune delivered with moxie.

ASHLEY McBRYDE / “Bottle Tells Me So”
Writers: Ashley McBryde/Shelly Fairchild/Terri Jo Box; Producer: John Osborne; Label: Warner Records Nashville
– Chilling, stark, and utterly magnificent. Staring alcoholism in the face in the cold light of the morning after. The ballad and her performance seethe with authenticity. This is one of our finest singer-songwriters at the peak of her powers.

MIKE PARKER / “Bone Dry”
Writers: Dirty Rice/Jimmy Robbins/Mike Parker/Notelle; Producer: Jimmy Robbins; Label: Mailbox Money Records
– It’s over. She’s gone. He’s left high and dry. The choppy, percussive elements in the production are super catchy, and Parker’s vocal is doubled, tripled, stacked and layered in ear tickling complexity. Highly creative.

KELLY LANG / “I Reach For Red”
Writer: Kelly Lang; Producer: Kelly Lang; Label: Leopard Entertainment
– Country veteran Lang remains a stunningly effective, throaty alto. In this lustrous, sophisticated track, she’s in praise of the comforting presence of red wine when the mood is blue.

MUMFORD AND SONS & CHRIS STAPLETON / “Here”
Writers: Aaron Dessner/Ben Lovett/Marcus Mumford/Ted Dwane; Producers: Aaron Dessner, Mumford & Sons; Label: Glassnote Entertainment Group
– This group-sung anthem relates regrets and mistakes in a hooky, folkie track that grabs your ears and doesn’t let go. A slam-dunk Americana chart-topper if I’ve ever heard one.

BRANTLEY GILBERT / “Good Damn”
Writers: Brantley Gilbert/Brock Berryhill/Michael Hardy/Taylor Phillips; Producers: Brantley Gilbert, Brock Berryhill; Label: Wheelhouse Records
– He runs into an ex. She still looks hot. He misses her. She misses him, too. The song meanders around in search of a melody.

MITCHELL TENPENNY / “Speed of Light”
Writers: Dallas Wilson/Jaten Dimsdale/Jesse Hampton/Mitchell Tenpenny; Producer: none listed; Label: Sony Music Nashville/Riser House Records
– A vow of devotion and fidelity. He’ll be there for her, no matter the time or place. The electronic, computer-enhanced production ranges from gentle to roaring as he unspools his passion. Recommended.

MEGHAN PATRICK / “Safe Place to Break”
Writers: Meghan Patrick/Shane Minor/Zach Kale; Producer: Karen Kosowski; Label: Riser House Records
– Gritty and soulful, this is a stately ode to the shelter of a lover. She wails righteously while a bluesy track builds tension. Patrick is a multiple Canadian country Female Vocalist of the Year who is working on stateside stardom in Music City. She and Tenpenny are spouses.

HUDSON WESTBROOK / “Hey Dallas”
Writers: Beau Bailey/Hudson Westbrook/Lukas Klingensmith/Reid Haughton; Producers: Lukas Scott, Ryan Youmans; Label: River House Artists/Warner Records Nashville
– Look out, Texas, there’s a female tornado headed your way. Boyish and earnest, Westbrook knows he’ll be helpless when she touches down.

JELLY ROLL & CARIN LEÓN / “Lighter”
Writers: Daniel Rondón/Edgar Barrera/Henry Walter/Jason Deford/Jessi Alexander/Jessie Jo Dillon/Jon Randall/Luke Dick/Manuel Lorente Freire/Óscar Armando Díaz de León Huez; Producers: Cirkut, Luke Dick; Label: Def Jam Records
– This is the FIFA World Cup soccer theme song. León is a huge Latin star. On this three-way international collaboration, he represents Mexico; producer Cirkut represents Canada; Jelly Roll represents the U.S. Cirkut’s stomping pop track is dominated by Jelly Roll’s rousing shouts of victorious liberation with León chiming in with similar Spanish lyrics. It’s a worthy accompaniment to one of the world’s biggest sporting events.

DISClaimer Single Reviews: Luke Combs Delivers ‘Soulful Vocal Performance’

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Luke Combs. Photo: Robby Klein

The stars are out in DISClaimer today.

Esteemed veterans Willie Nelson, Jo Dee Messina and Vince Gill are snuggled up with Luke Combs, Lainey Wilson and Gabby Barrett in this edition.

Big voice, big award winner Luke Combs claims the Disc of the Day award.

Alas, we have no first-timers in the column today. That’s what happens when everyone is already twinkling to brightly.

CLAY STREET UNIT / “Left Unsaid”
Writers: Sam Walker/Scottie Bolin; Producer: Chris Pandolfi; Label: Leo33
– A troubled relationship, set to stuttering steel, rippling banjo, scampering mandolin and brushed drumming. Hearty and bluegrassy and ultimately listenable. Also check out the road-weary “Drive” from this Colorado band’s album Sin & Squalor.

JO DEE MESSINA / “Some Bridges”
Writers: Jo Dee Messina/Kat Higgins/James T. Slater; Producer: David Spencer; Label: Dreambound Records
– Messina’s comeback album after a 10-year silence is heralded via this fierce single. In the wake of a failed romance, she sings, “Some bridges are meant to build; some bridges are meant to burn.” It’s a spitfire performance and a welcome return. Sing on, sister.

LUKE COMBS / “I Ain’t No Cowboy”
Writers: Cody Johnson/Jake Mears/Luke Combs; Producers: Chip Matthews, Jonathan Singleton, Luke Combs; Label: Seven Ridges Records/Columbia Nashville
– She’s left him in a cloud of dust. Combs delvers one of his most soulful vocal performances to date in this yearning ballad of regret. Torrid, believable and gripping. This is a superstar at the peak of his powers. The song comes from his sixth album, The Way I Am, which drops tomorrow (March 20).

LAINEY WILSON / “Can’t Sit Still”
Writers: Aslan Freeman/Dallas Wilson/Lainey Wilson/Trannie Anderson; Producer: Jay Joyce; Label: Broken Bow Records
– Wilson rocks out on this feisty, fresh tempo tune. The production is somewhat too “busy,” with layers of processed, overdubbed vocal sounds.

ALEX MILLER & EMILY ANN ROBERTS / “More Country Than You”
Writers: Alex Miller/Bill Whyte/Emily Ann Roberts; Producer: Jerry Salley; Label: Billy Jam Records
– The title tune of Miller’s upcoming CD is a bopping retro ditty. It’s also totally cute, with him swapping hillbilly boasts with co-writer Roberts. As the title suggests, this Kentucky wonder is wonderfully C-O-U-N-T-R-Y whenever and whatever he sings.

WILLIE NELSON / “Dream Chaser”
Writers: Bobby Tomberlin/Buddy Cannon/Willie Nelson; Producer: Buddy Cannon; Label: Legacy Recordings
– The living legend is gearing up to release his 79th (!) album this spring. Its title tune marries his gentle, world-weary vocal delivery with a gorgeous, rolling, evocative production by Cannon. I was thoroughly enthralled, and it really made my heart feel good. Also on the collection will be a Willie/Buddy/Bob Dylan co-write and a revival of the 1966 George Jones goldie “Developing My Pictures.” Can’t wait.

BRIT TAYLOR / “Around and Around”
Writers: Adam Chaffins/Adam Wright/Brit Taylor; Producer: Adam Chaffins; Label: Cut A Shine Records
– This former Discovery Award winner remains a peerless Appalachian stylist. Taylor issued her new Land of the Forgotten LP this month, and that’s where you’ll find this terrific twang fest. In addition to being wildly catchy, the country-rocker paints a portrait of a dead-end, working-class existence that she vows to escape. This is an absolutely essential country artist. Buy her on vinyl now.

ALEX HALL & MAE ESTES / “We Should Probably Stop Here”
Writers: Alex Hall/Clara Park; Producer: Pete Good; Label: Yeehall Records/Blue Harbor Music
– They’re trapped in a relationship that neither one can quit. Both sing splendidly, and they’ll perform their duet live for the first time on the Opry next Tuesday (March 24). They’ll also perform in the round at Anzie Blue during the Tin Pan South festival next Friday (March 27).

BRIAN KELLEY / “The Queen of 30A”
Writers: Chase McGill/Cole Taylor/Michael Carter/Shane Minor; Producer: Katlin Owen; Label: BK
– The former FGL member adopts a beach-y groove in this sunny romance. Jaunty and bopping.

LOCASH / “Wrong Hearts”
Writers: Chris Lucas/Josh Thompson/Matt Dragstrem/Preston Brust; Producer: Jacob Rice; Label: LOCASH
– He’s been in all the wrong bars, made all the bad decisions and took all the wrong turns on his way to her. Smooth and classy country.

GABBY BARRETT / “The Easy Part”
Writers: Gabby Barrett/Jon Nite/Michael Hardy/Zach Abend; Producers: Ross Copperman, Zach Abend, Zach Kale; Label: Warner Records Nashville
– Her throaty vocal is super compelling as she describes a crumbling relationship. She warns him that leaving is the easy part and that living without her will be tougher than he thinks. A churning, echoey production supports her at every turn. Nicely done.

VINCE GILL / “Lonely’s What I Do”
Writers: Belle Frantz/Sharon Vaughn/Vince Gill; Producer: Vince Gill; Label: MCA
– Exquisitely sad and reflective. We all love the songs that evoke that “Born to Lose” vibe. Someone’s leavin,’ someone’s cheatin,’ someone’s crying, someone’s driving. Ache in every country note. I will go to my grave loving this man’s music.

ASHLAND CRAFT / “Yard Sale”
Writers: Ashland Craft/Kasey Tyndall/Lee Starr; Producers: Jess Grommet, Lee Starr; Label: Leo33
– She’s getting rid of all his stuff, and she’s selling it cheap. Rollicking and sassy. Ashley McBryde and Mae Estes provide vocal harmonies.

DISClaimer Single Reviews: Kacey Musgraves, Kane Brown, Carly Pearce & Riley Green Share Disc Of The Day

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Kacey Musgraves, Kane Brown, Riley Green & Carly Pearce

DISClaimer has a bonanza of fine new country sounds this week.

More than half of the tracks in this listening session could be a Disc of the Day. With such an abundance of riches, we’re compelled to dole the prizes out by category. So this week, we have three Disc of the Day awards.

In the Female Vocalist category, Kacey Musgraves’s clever catalog of horniness wins a Disc of the Day. Among the Male Vocalist contenders, ebullient Kane Brown has another Disc of the Day. In a day notable for vocal collaborations, the Carly Pearce/Riley Green duet is our “group” Disc of the Day honoree.

Madden Metcalf looks and sounds young at heart, and the first-timer earns a DISCovery Award for his debut.

ANNE WILSON & COLE SWINDELL / “Still Do”
Writers: Anne Wilson/Jeff Pardo/Matthew West/Trannie Anderson; Producers: Jeff Pardo, Ross Copperman; Label: Sparrow
– Prodigal children find their way back to God, but neither of them sings a harmony vocal.

HUDSON WESTBROOK / “Painted You Pretty”
Writers: Beau Bailey/Hudson Westbrook/Lukas Scott; Producer: Lukas Scott; Label: River House Artists/Warner Records Nashville
– The Lone Star State up-and-comer is gentle and romantic on this lilting outing. He sings that she’s “picture perfect,” and “I bet you’ve got a heart of gold.” Awww.

LOLA KIRKE / “Trailblazer”
Writers: Daniel Tashian/Lola Kirke; Producer: Daniel Tashian; Label: One Riot Records
– The Academy Awards ceremony is Sunday (March 15). Best Picture nominee Sinners is the most nominated film in Oscar history. In it, Nashville’s Lola Kirke portrays a roving vampire in a folk-singing trio. The title tune of her current album urges you to pave your own way and stand up for yourself when you feel like you don’t fit in. A densely muffled production backs her wistful soprano vocal. While on the film’s set, she also wrote a wonderfully wry and witty memoir titled Wild West Village. Both the album and the book are well worth your time.

KANE BROWN / “Woman”
Writers: none listed; Producer: none listed; Label: Sony Music Nashville
– His buddies want him to go out and chase girls with them. He turns them down, because instead of girls, he has a real woman. A churning, bopping production and Brown’s charisma make this an undeniable, instant favorite.

DAVID NAIL / “The Crown”
Writers: Anderson East/David Nail; Producer: Anderson East; Label: One Five Sound
– Nail offers a short-story in a wafting ballad about a teenager who loses her way, but can always find peace back in her home town. This performer remains a gripping, gifted singer-songwriter.

CARLY PEARCE & RILEY GREEN / “If I Don’t Leave I’m Gonna Stay”
Writers: none listed; Producers: Ben West, Carly Pearce; Label: Blue Highway Records
– These two have stunning vocal chemistry. Green’s twin-like harmony singing is a revelation, and they both bring simmering heat to this portrait of passion. Essential listening.

TENILLE TOWNES & LORI McKENNA / “the acrobat”
Writers: Lori McKenna/Tenille Townes; Producer: Tenille Townes; Label: TT
– I’m a big fan of Canadian star Townes. On this aching ballad, she’s accompanied solely by an acoustic guitar and the alto harmonies of McKenna. The result is starkly compelling artistry where you hang on every line.

CHRIS JANSON & DAVID LEE MURPHY / “Fun”
Writers: Chris Janson/David Lee Murphy/Jesse Murphy/Michael Wayne Wilkes/Mitchell Oglesby; Producers: Chris Janson, Michael Wayne Wilkes; Label: Harpeth 60/Warner Records Nashville
– This is pretty much what the title says it is. Rollicking and rambunctious. A big grin.

BELLAH MAE / “Love Me Less”
Writers: Bellah Mae/Brett Truitt/Brigetta Truitt; Producer: Brett Truitt; Label: Sony Music Nashville
– Her breathy vocal is surrounded by twinkling guitar notes and a simple percussive thump in this soft pop production. Very pretty, if not exactly “country.”

KACEY MUSGRAVES / “Dry Spell”
Writers: Josh Osborne/Kacey Musgraves/Luke Laird/Shane McAnally; Producers: Daniel Tashian, Ian Fitchuk, Kacey Musgraves, Luke Laird; Label: Lost Highway
– Delightful. She’s wry and witty on this bopping lament of being horny. The sexy double entendres are super cute, and some twanging guitars skip along merrily.

LUKE GRIMES / “Haunted”
Writers: Dave Cobb/Jessie Jo Dillon/Luke Grimes; Producer: Dave Cobb; Label: MCA
– Already widely known for his role on Yellowstone, Grimes is in a new CBS drama series titled Marshals. On its soundtrack, this slow, brooding track depicts resilience and letting go of the past. His baritone voice conveys a certain world-weary wisdom. Love the drawn-out, echoey, instrumental fade.

MADDEN METCALF / “I Don’t Wanna Cry Anymore”
Writers: Elliah Heifetz/Freddy Wexler/Madden Metcalf; Producers: Freddy Wexler, Paul Sikes; Label: Wexler Records/MCA Nashville
– Heartbreak with a little skip in its step. Metcalf’s rapid-fire delivery and jaunty attitude contrast nicely with his boyish, lost-love ditty. Extremely promising.

PYNK BEARD / “Ice on the Road”
Writers: Coleridge Tillman/Jayme Silverstein/Warren Okay Felder; Producers: Jayme Silverstein, Oak for The Orphanage; Label: Anzie Blue Records
– A moody meditation punctuated by tenor shouts that pleads for brotherhood and understanding. Love your neighbor, exhorts Pynk Beard.

DISClaimer Single Reviews: Warren Zeiders’ New Track Burns With ‘Romantic Intensity’

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Warren Zeiders. Photo: Austin Screws

Country music is easing us into spring this week.

Riding warm winds are Tucker Wetmore, Devon Gilfillian, Carter Faith, Kameron Marlowe and Kip Moore.

The grooviest Daylight Savings Time sounds belong to our Disc of the Day winner, Warren Zeiders and the marvelously creative effort by DISCovery Award winner Leah Blevins.

Happy listening.

KIP MOORE / “Levee”
Writers: none listed; Producer: Andrew DeRoberts, Kip Moore; Label: KM
– Swampy, steaming, and rocking, with shades of Creedence and a lot of menacing attitude. Love the ad-libbed yelps.

BOB MINNER, TIM McGRAW & LORI McKENNA / “Kentucky Bluebird”
Writers: Don Cook/Wally Wilson; Producer: Bob Minner; Label: Billy Blue Records
– Pining for a long-distance lover, accompanied by gently plucked mandolin, dobro, and guitar, as well as a softly sighing fiddle. Acoustic nirvana.

LEAH BLEVINS / “All Dressed Up”
Writers: Dan Auerbach/Daniel Tashian/Leah Blevins; Producer: Dan Auerbach; Label: Easy Eye Sound
– Her mountain soprano is wedded to an echoey, dramatic track in this stately ballad of unrequited love. Innovative and ethereal, it’s a sound that will haunt you. It is also the title tune of an ear-opening, singer-songwriter album that’s due on March 20

WARREN ZEIDERS / “Born to Be Yours”
Writers: Ali Tamposi/Blake Pendergrass/Griff Clawson/Jake Hindlin/Warren Zeiders; Producer: Ross Copperman; Label: Warner Records
– A rumbling, rhythmic, stirring track lifts a song of eternal devotion heavenward. Zeiders’ vocal is loaded with dynamics, from hushed whisper to soaring celebration. The whole thing seems infused with burning romantic intensity. I’m in.

LILY MEOLA & WILLIE NELSON / “Tumbleweeds and Chewing Gum”
Writers: none listed; Producer: none listed; Label: LM
– Hawaii native Meola floats over a spare, loping, “prairie” sounding track while Nelson adds his own special sauce with a mid-song verse. Dreamy atmosphere rules here. Meola showcases her upcoming album at Skinny Dennis on Sunday (March 8) at 7 p.m. The event also celebrates the one-year anniversary of the East Nashville nightspot.

RODNEY CROWELL & EMMYLOU HARRIS / “Go Light a Candle”
Writers: Rodney Crowell/Sam Baker; Producers: Dan Knobler, Rodney Crowell; Label: New West Records
– With a tender touch, Crowell offers a song of hope and resilience in the face of political oppression. He and Harris assure us that things will get better, and Lera Lynn adds soft harmony support. It sounds like a kitchen-table conversation with old and trusted friends.

TREY PENDLEY / “Like a River”
Writers: Ben Chapman/Meg McRee/Trey Pendley; Producers: Jacob Bryant, John Davidson; Label: Leo33
– Heart warming. He relaxes into the love ballad with an easy-going drawl. The nicely arranged track gives the tune its meaty sonic core. Gently persuasive.

TUCKER WETMORE / “Sunburn”
Writers: none listed; Producer: none listed; Label: MCA/Back Blocks Music
– A breezy beach romance with a lilting, bobbing, bubbling vibe. Wetmore continues to impress.

ANGEL WHITE / “LONESTAR GIRL”
Writers: Angel White/Jeffrey East; Producers: Angel White, Joseph Holguin; Label: American Dogwood/EMPIRE
– Authentic Texas cowboy White goes in an urban, blues-rock direction on this strutting stomper. It’s the theme song of a new Wrangler ad campaign that features him dancing while sporting the company’s western shirts.

KAMERON MARLOWE / “No Need for Leavin’”
Writers: none listed; Producer: none listed; Label: Sony
– Steeped in a neo-soul groove, Marlowe gets into a wailing bluesy, plea that urges her to stay. Some deep-indigo guitar licks and a searing organ underscore his supremely confident vocal performance. Extremely well done.

TYLER BRADEN / “Dry County”
Writers: Allison Veltz Cruz/Lalo Guzman/Laura Veltz/Tyler Braden; Producers: Lalo Guzman, Sam Martinez; Label: Warner Records Nashville
– Dobro and steel notes ache along with his heartbreak vocal delivery in this mid-tempo, lonesome outing. There’s something intimate and hearty about his voice that is quite appealing.

CARTER FAITH / “If I Had Never Lost My Mind”
Writers: Carter Faith/Jen Stegall/Jordan Lehning/Lauren Hungate/Tofer Brown; Producer: Tofer Brown; Label: MCA
– Her plaintive delivery has hooky vocal breaks as well as volume oomph. The power ballad has cool, thumpy, backbeat percussion and soaring strings. The lyric laments the fact that she drove him away because she is deranged and crazed. This song’s parent album, Cherry Valley, is one of country music’s finest debut collections. Catch Carter Faith at the Exit/In on Saturday (March 14) and Sunday (March 15). 

DEVON GILFILLIAN / “Hold On (Hourglass)”
Writers: Dana Mary Williams/Devon Gilfillian/Paul Duncan/Ran Jackson; Producers: Devon Gilfillian, Jonathan Smalt, Ran Jackson; Label: Fantasy
– Gilfillian is the finest R&B talent in Nashville today. He previews his third album with this twang-embellished, urgent, country-soul rocker that rumbles along righteously while he wails in heartache.

DISClaimer Single Reviews: Amy Grant Shares A ‘Beautifully Done’ Ballad

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Amy Grant. Photo: Ed Rode

Joe Nichols, LeAnn Rimes, Preston Cooper, Brei Carter and Ernest are all singing of gentle things. Rising above them all is Amy Grant, who wins the Disc of the Day with her heartwarming “The Me That Remains.”

Also on the gentle side is Alyssa Micaela, who wins this week’s DISCovery Award.

Among our rockers today, Webb Wilder is the ruler.

PRESTON COOPER / “One More Place I’ve Never Been”
Writers: Preston Cooper/Brad Warren/Brett Warren; Producer: Brett Warren ; Label: Valory
– Bluesy and moody. The power ballad laments a lost love by citing unseen destinations. He wails convincingly and a screaming rock guitar punctuates the proceedings. Cooper plays the Nashville Palace next Wednesday (March 4) to showcase his debut album Toledo Talkin.

ERNEST / “Boat Named After You”
Writers: none listed; Producer: none listed; Label: Big Loud
– A heartache wafting on ocean breezes. He’s floating alone on the boat he named for her wondering where she is and what she’s doing. His voice is as smooth as a milkshake, and the airy production is a simply brilliant, sparkling thing. I’m madly in love with this single.

49 WINCHESTER / “Pardon Me”
Writer: Isaac Gibson; Producer: Dave Cobb; Label: Lucille Records/MCA
– Simmering in Southern Rock, this roaring slab of sound wouldn’t sound out of place on a classic Allman Brothers album.

LUKE BRYAN / “Word on the Street”
Writers: Payton Smith/Josh Thompson/Justin Ebach; Producer: Jeff Stevens; Label: MCA
– He’s trying to tune out the gossip and rumors about their breakup. Out in nature, he doesn’t hear a thing. A nicely done thumper with cool guitar licks and an insistent rhythm track.

LANGHORNE SLIM / “We the People”
Writer: Langhorne Slim; Producers: Langhorne Slim, Sam F. Kiszka; Label: Dualtone
– To the accompaniment of scampering bluegrass fiddle and lickety-split strumming, Slim sings a protest song of brotherhood and of unity in the face of political repression. Last month, the East Nashvillian showcased it on The Daily Show. Programmers note: the lyric drops a few “f” bombs. This folkie Americana favorite performs his new album The Dreamin’ Kind at The Basement East this Saturday (Feb. 28).

ASHLEY McBRYDE / “Arkansas Mud”
Writers: Ashley McBryde/Jessie Jo Dillon/Chris Tompkins; Producer: John Osborne; Label: Warner Records Nashville
– McBryde rocks out, spitting the lyric with fiery conviction. She refuses to apologize for cigarettes and alcohol because substance abuse sticks to her soul like mud. Underneath her phony, shiny, goody image is her hell-raiser authentic self. The production kicks butt as forcefully as her vocal.

LeANN RIMES / “Wild Things Run”
Writers: LeAnn Rimes/Darrell Brown; Producers: LeAnn Rimes, Darrell Brown; Label: EverLe Records
– Rimes is currently startling viewers with her portrayal of “Dixie,” an embittered, psycho ex from hell, on ABC-TV’s 911: Nashville. She crafted this single inspired by her character. It’s a goose-bump ballad with awesome chords and an epic, muscular production that pounds while her soprano soars. A wronged woman who soars on eagle’s wings. 911: Nashville airs every Thursday evening. Watch for fleeting scenes of Music City locations as well as for her portrayal.

JORDAN DAVIS / “Like God Intended”
Writers: none listed; Producer: none listed; Label: MCA
– He doesn’t believe that the Good Lord intended us to work ourselves to death. Instead, he has faith that relaxing, drinking beer, making love, fishing and enjoying a sunset out in nature are what he was born to do. The track has a funky, loopy attraction and the lyric references Travis Tritt’s “A Great Day to Be Alive.” Very cool.

BREI CARTER / “Country Lives In Me”
Writers: Brei Carter/Kim McLean; Producer: none listed; Label: BC
– A rippling acoustic guitar riff draws you into this gentle ode to pastoral peace. Carter’s silky, resonant voice has a conversational intimacy that’s soothing on the ear. This title tune of her new album is lovely and highly listenable. I remain a fan.

AMY GRANT / “The Me That Remains”
Writers: Amy Grant/Mac McAnally; Producer: Mac McAnally; Label: Thirty Tigers
– This six-time Grammy winner and 2022 Kennedy Center honoree is poised to release her first new album of original songs in 13 years. Collaborators on the collection will include Ruby Amanfu, Vince Gill, Michael W. Smith, the late Sarah Cannon, and producer/co-writer Mac McAnally. The album’s title tune references her traumatic brain injury from a 2022 bicycle accident, but is ultimately an ode to resilience and gratitude. Her warm soprano is framed by gentle piano notes and soft organ sighs on the touching, inspirational ballad. Beautifully done.

JOE NICHOLS / “Fighting the Good Fight”
Writers: Joe Nichols/Jason Sellers/Paul Jenkins; Producers: Joe Nichols, Jason Sellers & Paul Jenkins; Label: Quartz Hill
– This is an autobiographical strummer that explores his “tough love” upbringing, honky-tonkin’ wild days and his strength as a father to his daughters. His voice caresses the lyric while instruments sway along.

ALYSSA MICAELA / “Unfinished Quilt”
Writers: Alyssa Micaela/Olivia Rudeen/Autumn McEntire; Producers: Stormy Cooper, Will Braun; Label: Azteca Ranch
– Her sweet, youthful voice reminisces about her grandmother who, “left a lot of love and some shoes I’ll never fill.” The bopping ditty is the sound of innocence and affection.

WEBB WILDER / “Hillbilly Speedball”
Writer: David Grissom; Producers: Webb Wilder & George Bradfute; Label: Landslide
– Tasty! The title tune of Wilder’s current album is a snappy country rocker. The native Mississippian drawls the dark lyric with a snarling, outlaw, spoken-sung vibe. He’s headed down the wrong highway, but roars forward nonetheless. As with everything this artist has released, it’s heartily endorsed.

DISClaimer Single Reviews: Emily Ann Roberts Delivers A ‘Delightful Listening Experience’

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The male country-music superstars have their day today, but none of them claimed a DISClaimer award.

Luke Combs, Vince Gill, Russell Dickerson, Ray Stevens and Rodney Atkins all issued worthy new singles this week. But the female voices were just as captivating. Add Ella Langley, The Band Perry, Disc of the Day winner Emily Ann Roberts and DISCovery Award winners The Burnett Sisters Band to your playlists pronto.

EMILY ANN ROBERTS / “Whipped”
Writers: Emily Ann Roberts/Jeremy Spillman/Trent Willmon/Ryan Beaver; Producer: Brandon Hood; Label: RECORDS/Sony
– Wonderfully playful and smartly rocking. He’s a man’s-man, but she’s in charge. “Got me wrapped around his finger/But he don’t know I’ve got the upper hand.” A delightful listening experience. This gal is batting a thousand—every single is a gem.

VINCE GILL / “Down at the Borderline”
Writers: Vince Gill/Liz Rose; Producer: Vince Gill; Label: MCA
– Gill takes a trip to Louisiana in this rump-shaking, Cajun-flavored tempo tune. The whole track is a rollicking ride, and Lainey Wilson is on board with a lively vocal harmony. Get up and and dance.

RUSSELL DICKERSON / “The Roses”
Writers: Russell Dickerson/Michael Hardy/Chase McGill/Jordan Schmidt; Producers: Russell Dickerson, Josh Kerr; Label: Triple Tigers
– The high-energy showman proves his mettle as a balladeer with this ultra-romantic, piano ode to love and commitment. Beautifully done.

LUKE COMBS / “Be By You”
Writers: Dan Alley/Sam Banks/Nick Walsh; Producers: Luke Combs, Jonathan Singleton, Chip Matthews; Label: Sony
– A gently swaying hammock of sound cushions a softly caressing vocal performance. Soothing, sweet, and dreamy.

THE BURNETT SISTERS BAND / “Blaming You”
Writer: Gail Ann Amundsen; Producers: none listed; Label: Pinecastle
– This group’s Easy Come, Easy Go album is No. 1 in the bluegrass charts. This fiddle-led waltz is the collection’s lovely latest single. The tune really comes alive on the triple-harmonized choruses. Bluegrass purists beware, the sound includes steel guitar. The rest of us are going to smile and sway along.

ELLA LANGLEY / “Be Her”
Writers: Ella Langley/Jordan Schmidt/Smith Ahnquist/Michael Hardy; Producers: Ella Langley, Miranda Lambert, Ben West; Label: SAWGOD/Columbia
– Enchanting. A delicious pop confection that’s sweet in all the right places. She’s yearning for self acceptance as she counts down all the markers of confidence and truth.

RED CLAY STRAYS / “If I Didn’t Know You”
Writers: Drew Nix/Natalie Hemby; Producer: Dave Cobb; Label: HBYCO/RCA
– The redemptive power of True Love infuses this somber ballad. The band marches to a slow, deliberate stomp while the vocalist rips into the lyric.

RODNEY ATKINS / “The Years Are Short”
Writers: Casey Beathard/Monty Criswell; Producers: Ted Hewitt, Brandon Hood, Rodney Atkins; Label: Curb
– A tender, affecting meditation on fatherhood. Country-music wisdom, found in three chords and the truth.

THE WAR AND TREATY / “If This Day”
Writers: Diane Warren; Producers: Desmond Child, Marti Frederiksen, Leslie Greif; Label: MCA
– Goose bumps all over. These twin towering infernos of vocal power bring gospel intensity to a meaningful message: If this was the last day of your life, would you be proud of what you’ve left behind? The track comes from The Gray House TV soundtrack. The limited series launches on Feb. 26.

LEE BRICE / “Country Nowadays”
Writers: Lee Brice/Matt Alderman/Nate Kenyon; Producers: none listed; Label: Curb
– Whining about how difficult it is to have values and morals these days. Puh-leeze.

THE BAND PERRY / “Psychological”
Writers: Ciara Park/Grace Tyler/Colton Venner; Producers: Dann Huff, Scott Borchetta, Jimmy Harnen; Label: Nashville Harbor
– This act is now a duo (Kimberly Perry & Johnny Costello), with no brothers in sight. The comeback single is a well written ditty — the boyfriend drives her so crazy that he makes her going psycho, logical. Definitely worth your spins.

RAY STEVENS / “Savannah”
Writer: Nick Sibley; Producer: Ray Stevens; Label: Curb
– Stevens surrounds his crooning with a synth-y, big-band arrangement on this ode to a city in his home state of Georgia. Old-school pop that goes down smoothly.

ATLUS / “Spare Key”
Writers: Atlus/Rian Ball/Nick Boyd; Producers: Andrew Baylis; Label: BBR/BMG
– The verses are delivered in intimate, conversational fashion. Then he unleashes a fiery, anguished shout as he confronts his devastated relationship. They were dreaming of moving in together, until she suddenly split, leaving him just the spare key he’d once given her. You’ll hang on every line.